REVEALED: Mikel Arteta Held Secret Talks with Arsenal’s Summer During the Winter Transfer

According to The Times, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta held secret talks with Declan Rice in January regarding a summer move.

The Gunners have reportedly agreed to a £100 million plus £5 million deal with West Ham United for Rice.

The midfielder was one of the sought-after players in English football. Apart from the Gunners, Manchester City were also interested in Rice. However, they refused to match the Gunners’ bid.

The Times report suggested that Rice and Arteta had a secret talk in January to convince the player to join the North Londoners. Rice’s arrival could be a massive boost for Arteta’s side as Granit Xhaka looks set to leave the club in the summer.

Fabrizio Romano provided an update on the matter, telling:

“I’m told that this deal for Declan Rice is really, really close now. The agreement between Arsenal and West Ham is in place for the fee – £105 million. They’re negotiating on the payment terms and deal structure.”