Declan Rice transfer hold explained as Arsenal waits for green light with announcement ‘looming’
Arsenal are close to confirming the signing of West Ham captain Declan Rice in a club-record transfer agreement.
thesoccerstand has learned that the Gunners have had a strong interest in the England international since the beginning of the year, and that they intend to make his transfer a top priority this summer.
Even though it has yet to be confirmed, it appears that the north London club has won the sweepstakes for the 24-year-old after numerous twists and turns.
Due to the Hammers’ participation in the Europa Conference League final at the conclusion of the season, the bidding procedure was delayed initially.
Arsenal rejected bids totaling £80 million and £90 million after this hurdle was cleared.
Manchester City entered the contest later, making an initial offer that threatened their rivals; despite being rejected, the asking price was close to £100 million.
It was likely a matter of who would flinch first in order to reach that nine-figure offer, and it was the Gunners who moved first.
West Ham and City reached an agreement in principle on a transfer worth a total of £105 million, causing City to withdraw from the contest.
Due to the magnitude of the deal for both clubs and the significance of getting it right, it was only necessary to iron out a few details, such as the payment structure.
This appears to have been completed, and the player has already undergone a club-required physical, so it would appear that everything should be wrapping up, but there is still one final detail.
Sky Sports reports that Arsenal is prepared to finalize the transfer once the contract’s language has been confirmed and attorneys have given their approval.
Consequently, it appears that a transfer is imminent alongside that of Jurrien Timber, who is preparing a £40 million transfer from Ajax.
Given the amount of money involved, it is not surprising that such transactions take time to conclude on the transfer market.
Nonetheless, it appears that the two new signings are close to being finalized before Arsenal’s preseason matches begin.
Declan Rice transfer hold explained as Arsenal waits for green light with announcement ‘looming’