West Ham REJECT Arsenal's opening bid for Rice as Man City emerge as rivals

West Ham have rejected Arsenal's opening bid as the north London club races to sign star midfielder Declan Rice as Manchester City prepare to compete for the signature of the Hammers captain.

The north London club has long been the favoured option ahead of a likely summer move for the England star, despite overtures from a number of top flight clubs.

Rivals to secure Rice's services have included Manchester United, Bayern Munich, and Chelsea, but their interest has waned after confronting the reality of Rice's reported desire to join Mikel Arteta's side.

Bayern Munich wrapped up their interest in the 24-year-old on Tuesday, despite head coach Thomas Tuchel's desire to make him the club's record signing, their unwillingness to compete with Arsenal's financial muscle also a factor.

The Hammers believe their player is worth a staggering £110million, and co-chairman Daniel Sullivan's hopes of an array of suitors driving up one another's bids may yet come to fruition.

Arsenal are said to have opened discussions with West Ham on Wednesday, with Arsenal's executive Tim Lewis and his opposite number Karren Brady talking over a potential offer when Premier League clubs met at their annual AGM.

Although Arsenal are willing to pay close to West Ham's asking price, their opening offer was believed to be lower.

West Ham are believed to be interested in what Man City may be able to offer for the player, further delaying the Gunners' plans to make a swift move for their No 1 transfer target.

City's interest comes after Rice was the focus of rivals United's transfer aspirations, but the Red Devils' transfer energies have been largely focused on securing the talents of Rice's friend and England team-mate, Mason Mount.