West Ham United on Wednesday secured their first major trophy since 1980, being crowned UEFA Europa Conference League champions after beating Fiorentina 2-1.
The Irons narrowly beat the Italian side after a very late winner from Jarrod Bowen, becoming the team to win the second-ever edition of the competition. The game had it all, from a penalty scored by Said Benrahma, to a stunning goal from veteran Giacomo Bonaventura, as well as some horrific scenes after Cristiano Biraghi was hit by an object thrown from the West Ham end.
West Ham eventually came out on top, and the triumph elevated their season from underwhelming, to one that will live long in the club's history. One man that has been instrumental to their success is club captain Declan Rice.
The English midfielder has been an integral to the side, taking his game up a notch going forward, as in the 50 games he featured in all competitions, he got five goals and four assists.
His impressive displays have prompted various clubs to maintain their interest in him, with him now poised to leave West Ham in order to fulfil his ambition of playing in the UEFA Champions League.
Arsenal are one of those clubs, with Ben Jacobs reporting that the Gunners are preparing a formal bid for the 24-year-old, and it is expected to be tabled 'in the coming days'.
West Ham value Rice very highly, yet Arsenal are hoping for a deal under £100 million.
The journalist added that Rice would prefer to stay in London and has spoken 'glowingly about Arsenal and Mikel Arteta'.
He would be the perfect addition to Arteta's side, being able to play in Thomas Partey's position in front of the defence, and is also a direct replacement for Granit Xhaka, who is set to leave the club for Bayer Leverkusen.
However, Arsenal face some fierce competition, with Bayern Munich also reportedly very keen.
Rice will have a big decision to make in terms of which club to go for, and given he is West Ham's most prized asset, the Irons will undoubtedly be demand a hefty fee for him.
