Bayern Munich have pulled out of the race to sign West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice, believing that he will move to Arsenal this summer.
The England international has been heavily linked with the Gunners over the past few weeks, but the hierarchy are yet to make a formal offer to sign him.
Bayern have also been credited with an interest lately, but BILD report that they have decided not to make an offer for the Hammers captain.
Thomas Tuchel reportedly attended a high-level club meeting today where it was decided that the club won’t follow up their initial interest in Rice.
Tuchel is eager to partner Rice with Joshua Kimmich in his midfield, but the German champions believe the player is off to Arsenal this summer.
Arsenal closing in on Rice’s signature
The Gunners have been front-runners to sign Rice for some time, and they have been handed a big boost with Bayern ending their pursuit.
The club now need to finalise a suitable fee with the Hammers. It has recently been reported that they could secure a deal for £86 million.
The 24-year-old is one of the best defensive midfielders in the Premier League. His superb distribution and ball control would be an upgrade for the Gunners ahead of next season.
Aside from Rice, Arsenal are also actively looking into a deal for Brighton & Hove Albion’s Moises Caicedo. They could make a fresh £75m bid for the Ecuadorian star very soon.
If Arsenal are successful in signing both, there is a possibility that Rice could play in the number eight role as he possesses the ability to make bombarding runs into the final third.
It is well known that Granit Xhaka will move to Bayer Leverkusen this summer. There could be another midfield exit (possibly Albert Sambi Lokonga) if two new midfielders arrive.
