Arsenal confident of beating Chelsea to Declan Rice?

Arsenal are confident of beating Chelsea to the services of West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice this summer.

The Gunners were keen on landing the England international in January but the Hammers were reluctant to do business.

However, they are likely to sanction his sale in the summer and the Gunners believe they have the edge over the Blues.

Chelsea have been long-term admirers of the midfielder, who was previously in their youth academy for eight years.

Despite this, they are no longer in a strong position amid their poor league campaign. The club are 11th in the table.

On the other hand, Arsenal are flying high at the top of the standings. They could end their 19-year wait for the league title.

The Gunners are also on course to return to the Champions League whereas Chelsea may not be playing in Europe next term.

Arsenal are reportedly prepared to pay as much as £100 million to prise away the England international from the Hammers.