West Ham United have rejected Manchester City’s £80m first bid to sign midfielder Declan Rice, News About Nigeria reports.
Man City joined Arsenal in the race to sign the 24-year-old England international, after losing İlkay Gündoğan to Barcelona.
Gündogan was officially announced by the Spanish champions on Monday, having joined on a free transfer, signing a two-year deal with a €400m (($435.72m) buyout clause.
The 32-year-old old German player has always been a top target for Xavi, following his remarkable contributions to City.
However, in a move to find a replacement, Man City joined Arsenal for West Ham’s bright star Declan Rice, who has been the delight of several managers following his performances in the Premier League last season.
The Hammers so far have rejected all offers coming for the club’s skipper, including two from Arsenal and the most recent from The Citizens (Man City), while demanding a £100m release fee.
Arsenal is now said to be preparing their third official proposal in the area of £90m total package for the player.
West Ham is said to have rejected Manchester City’s £80m plus £10m add-ons proposal as they know Arsenal will come along with a third offer.
However, City remains in the race and could come up with a bigger package as they have always done for players they pick interest in.
It is worth noting that Arsenal has been actively pursuing new signings, having already secured Chelsea star Kai Havertz, who will be reunited with his former teammate Jorginho after joining the Gunners last season.
