3 reasons why Declan Rice would be the ultimate summer signing for Arsenal

3. Chelsea are desperate to sign him, too

The hijackers have admittedly been on Rice’s tail for much longer than we have. Chelsea’s interest in the West Ham midfielder dates back to Frank Lampard’s reign.

Rice, who was released by Chelsea when he was 14, will undoubtedly be tempted by any proposal from the Blues this summer. They’re desperate to bolster their midfield ranks and Todd Boehly certainly has the finances to facilitate a move – even if he has to overpay.

Teaming up with best friend Mason Mount is a prospect Rice might find tough to turn down, but the midfielder has spoken of his desire in the past to play Champions League football. Right now, the Blues are ten points adrift of Manchester United in fourth and are unlikely to even come close to winning their third Champions League.

Arsenal, on the other hand, are primed to play in Europe’s premier competition next season given their strong position in the league table. Should the Gunners avoid a staggering collapse and finish in the top four, they’ll boast a huge advantage over their London rivals in the Rice race.

Wouldn’t it be great to prise the midfielder away from West Ham right in front of Boehly’s despairing face?