Rice is alleged to be an admirer of the fashion of soccer Mikel Arteta performs. He would even be extra assured of a beginning spot at Arsenal than at City.

Arsenal are available in the market for midfield recruitment, with Granit Xhaka set to go away for Bayer Leverkusen. Rice has at all times been their prime goal since curiosity emerged on the flip of the yr.

They tried to signal Brighton's Moises Caicedo in January, seeing bids of as much as £70m rejected. Caicedo has remained a goal heading into the summer season window.

However, Arsenal have now pulled out of the race for the Ecuador worldwide as they focus all their consideration on Rice. Caicedo might be now set for Chelsea, whereas Arsenal additionally pursue a deal for Blues ahead Kai Havertz who's valued at round £60m.