Arsenal set to make official bid for West Ham midfielder Declan Rice

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Arsenal are contemplating to make a move for West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice, according to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano.

The Gunners are in need for a midfielder next season. And Romano says they will make a move for Rice soon and may submit their first formal bid within next few weeks.

Arsenal's Premier League quest for this season is on the verge of collapsing. Man City are currently 4 points ahead of the Gunners and require just 3 points in three matches to win the league title for the 5th time in the last six years.

Arsenal had a commendable season with their young players. Despite their potential second-placed finish, the North London club will be aiming to go one better next season. And midfield is a position they have identified as a position to improve.

With Granit Xhaka closing in on a move away from the club, they need a top player who can provide the steel in front of their defense and also play a part in their offensive play. West Ham midfielder Declan Rice is seen as the perfect option as the England international has grown in statures with the Hammers over the years.

"Declan Rice has always been a top target and he remains their priority. There have been conversations between Arsenal and Rice, while Mikel Arteta and Edu were already discussing him internally back in January. Arsenal now plan to prepare an official bid for the West Ham star in the next few weeks," Romano wrote on his column.

Rice is said to be keen to join the North London club and undoubtedly will be a fantastic addition. He will bring enormous quality and Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is said to be an admirer of the 24-year-old former Chelsea academy prodigy.

He confirmed that Rice is not going to pen a new deal and 'Arsenal will be there, it's their priority, they want to try to bid for him soon.'

The Italian journalist also claims the Gunners will face competition for Rice's signature as Chelsea and Manchester United are also monitoring the situation and may rival the Gunners for the talented England player.