Mikel Arteta’s interest in Declan Rice might be hijacked by Manchester United, ruining Arsenal’s summer transfer ambitions. Erik ten Hag’s desire to add a midfielder and a goal scorer before the start of his second campaign at Old Trafford is well known, so why not make hay while the sun shines?

During West Ham United’s 2-1 victory over Leeds United on Sunday, Rice scored his fourth Premier League goal of the year.

He was selected the team’s Player of the Season by the club an hour earlier following another outstanding campaign at the centre of David Moyes’ squad.

After nearly 250 appearances, his departure is anticipated for this summer. That much Moyes has stated.

But whether a suitor is drawn enough to make a nine-figure bid will once again be the deciding factor. The lowest bid will not win the auction.

And with the lure of Champions League football set to be revealed this week, United are apparently prepared to compete with Arsenal for his signature.

After a “important win” over Brentford, Erik ten Hag was pleased with Man United’s response.

On Sunday against Leeds, Declan Rice scored.

When the Gunners return after suffering a late-season heartbreak in the title chase, Arteta is rumoured to consider Rice as an important component of his plans for next season.

The upcoming transfer of Granit Xhaka to Bayer Leverkusen shows that the Spanish manager is optimistic about his improvement in the upcoming months.

NEVER MISS

As much as it would strengthen Ten Hag’s ranks, United getting involved in a move may derail Arsenal’s summer plans.

It would need to break the club record, going beyond the £89 million spent in 2016 to bring Paul Pogba back to Old Trafford.

Arsenal’s top priority aim is Declan Rice
Naturally, the outcome of a competing offer for Rice will depend on how well United does with player sales early in the transfer season.

Ten Hag’s team still needs a striker, and that is his top priority. Among his main goals are Harry Kane, Victor Osimhen, and Goncalo Ramos.

But Rice would score more goals if he beat Arsenal to the transfer, giving Casemiro a top-tier teammate and potential successor.

There will be less expensive possibilities, but Rice’s availability might be too good of a chance to pass up.