Arsenal are very confident of beating Chelsea to the signing of West Ham midfielder Declan Rice, according to The Times via Metro.

The Hammers are expected to sell Rice at the end of the season with the midfielder unwilling to sign a new contract in east London.

Chelsea recently hijacked Arsenal’s deal for Ukraine winger Mykhailo Mudryk and Arsenal are now hoping to hit back by signing Chelsea long-term target Rice.

Rice played in the Chelsea academy until the age of 14 and is a lifelong Blues supporter, also best friends with Mason Mount.

Arsenal believe their status as Premier League leaders will give them an edge over Chelsea in the race for Rice at the end of the season.