Manchester City are set to enter the race to sign West Ham captain Declan Rice.
City are preparing for life without treble-winning captain Ilkay Gundogan, who is set to join Barcelona, and want England international Rice despite agreeing a deal with Chelsea for Mateo Kovacic.
Rice has been the subject of two unsuccessful bids from Arsenal this summer, with offers of £80m and £90m rejected by West Ham.
Having beaten Arsenal to the Premier League title last season, Manchester City are now hoping to beat the Gunners to the signature of Rice.
West Ham have agreed to let Rice go this summer but want a deal worth £120m if they are to allow their captain to leave.
City’s interest increases the likelihood of a bidding war between themselves and Arsenal, and the likelihood that West Ham’s asking price will be matched.
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As speculation grows over Declan Rice’s future, we look back at his best Premier League moments for West Ham
Sky Sports News understands that two “big” offers are expected to be made for Rice on Thursday.
Arsenal are preparing to make a third bid for Rice after seeing their opening two bids rejected.
It is understood positive negotiations are ongoing between the London clubs, who are said to be working on a similar fee and payment structure on the deal.
Manchester United have an interest in Rice and there have been internal discussions about how likely it is to agree a deal.
Due to Financial Fair Play rules, United are unlikely to spend a large part of their budget on one player – especially as they have other areas they want to strengthen.
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