Arsenal set sights on summer Declan Rice deal

Arsenal are planning to beat Chelsea to the signing of West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice this summer.

The Gunners were linked with the England star last month, but the Hammers had no plans of losing him midway through a relegation battle.

However, the scenario will be completely different in the summer and reports claim that Rice could be sold for a fee of around £80 million.

Chelsea have been long-term admirers of the 24-year-old, but the Gunners are confident of beating their rivals to the midfielder's services.

Rice is currently in the final 18 months of his Hammers contract but the London club have the option to extend his stay for another year.

The Hammers can play hardball over negotiations this summer but that would only hamper their chances of commanding a big fee.

Champions League football could be essential to landing him and Arsenal are in pole position to qualify for the competition, as of now.

Chelsea, on the other hand, are languishing in the 10th spot in the league. They are a staggering 10 points behind the top four at the moment.