Arsenal and West Ham United have reportedly finalized a comprehensive agreement for the transfer of Declan Rice, with the player now scheduled to undergo a medical examination at the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners had previously reached a £105m fee agreement with West Ham, although further discussions were required to determine the payment structure.
As per the Daily Mail, both clubs have now reached a resolution, with Mikel Arteta’s team agreeing to pay the total sum in three installments over a span of 24 months. Following the medical assessment, Rice is expected to sign a long-term contract with Arsenal, with reports suggesting that his weekly salary will be a minimum of £250,000.
Last season, the 24-year-old midfielder led West Ham as captain to success in the Europa Conference League, featuring in 50 matches across all competitions throughout the 2022-23 campaign.
Various clubs, including Manchester United and Liverpool, had expressed interest in signing Rice. However, Manchester City and Arsenal emerged as the frontrunners to secure his signature. Ultimately, City was unwilling to exceed £100m for the player, paving the way for Arsenal to pursue the deal in the final stages of the transfer saga.
The official announcement of the transfer was delayed as Arsenal initially struggled to reach an agreement with West Ham regarding the transfer structure. However, it is now understood that a comprehensive agreement has been reached, allowing Rice to complete a lucrative move to Arsenal.
During his time at West Ham, Rice made 245 appearances in all competitions, contributing 15 goals and 13 assists. With the signing of Rice, Arsenal adds a significant player to their squad, joining previous summer acquisition Kai Havertz from Chelsea. Additionally, a deal for Ajax defender Jurrien Timber is reportedly nearing completion.
Rice’s arrival marks a statement of intent from Arsenal, who finished second in the Premier League last season. Manager Mikel Arteta reportedly plans to utilize Rice and Havertz alongside Martin Odegaard in a midfield trio. While Granit Xhaka and Thomas Partey played crucial roles for the Gunners last season, both players are currently linked with moves away from the club.
Arsenal’s pre-season campaign kicks off on July 13 against Nurnberg, with their first competitive match of the 2023-24 season scheduled against treble winners Manchester City in the Community Shield on August 6.