Arsenal manager confident of signing £100m-rated West Ham star this summer

Arsenal manager Mikel Artea is reportedly confident of signing West Ham United star Declan Rice in the summer transfer window. 

According to The Mirror, Arteta wants to hold negotiations with the 24-year-old as soon as the season ends. 

The Spanish boss reportedly believes he can help convince the £100 million-rated young midfielder to join the Gunners.

The player’s current contract with the Hammers is set to expire in June 2024. He has turned down offers of a new deal and is expected to depart the East London outfit in the coming transfer window. 

West Ham have endured a highly disappointing season under David Moyes, and are currently fighting to maintain their top-flight status by the end of the campaign. 

Despite the Irons’ struggles, Rice has enjoyed a fine form this term. He has registered three goals and contributed two assists in 33 Premier League appearances so far. 

Operating as a defensive midfielder, the 24-year-old has averaged an impressive 2.3 tackles, 1.8 interceptions and 1.5 clearances per game in the top-flight (as per Whoscored). 

He has also completed 4.2 long balls and 1.1 key passes while boasting an incredible 87.7 percent passing accuracy. 

Arsenal has become an attractive destination for players now as Mikel Arteta has completely changed their fortunes this season. 

They are likely to lose the league title to Manchester City, but the Gunners still deserve a lot of credit for their overall performances this term. 

The Londoners have already secured Champions League football for next season, which was their main aim at the beginning of the campaign.