Manchester City’s opening offer for West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice has been rejected, sources reported on Tuesday. The Hammers allegedly rejected the offer of £80 million ($102 million) plus another £10 million in add-ons, instead demanding £100 million for the 24-year-old in guaranteed payments.
City faces Arsenal in a race to sign Rice, with the Gunners previously bidding £75m plus £15m in add-ons for the England international last week. While Manchester United also showed signs of interest in Rice, it appears as if the Red Devils will not enter the race as the price tag that West Ham has demanded for Rice appears to be out of their price range.
Following the departure of Ilkay Gundogan to FC Barcelona, Man City is looking to fill the gap in the heart of their midfield left by their former captain. While the club was interested in keeping Gundogan for another season, he opted for a two-year contract with an option for a third with Barcelona.
With the futures of central midfielders Bernardo Silva and Kalvin Phillips also unknown, City is eager to get the deal for Rice done.
