Premier League rivals Arsenal are now leading Chelsea in the race to sign West Ham midfielder Declan Rice in the summer, according to GiveMeSport.

Arsenal are in sustained contact with Rice’s representatives and willing to put a £200,000-per-week contract on the table as they look to steal a march on other suitors.

Rice reportedly wants Champions League football next season and believes he will get that at Arsenal next season with Chelsea struggling to finish in the top four this season.

Football.London journalist Kaya Kaynak told GiveMeSport: “From what I hear, he is quite happy with that interest. He’s quite excited by the prospect of moving to Arsenal and the prospect of playing in the Champions League, which is something he’s always said.

“He has been very flattered by the fact that Arsenal are making an effort to sign him and going in this way. I think it’s looking positive for Arsenal.”