Declan Rice is a top target for Arsenal as they want to add at least one elite midfielder ahead of the summer transfer window now that they have secured their spot in the Champions League for the next season.
Arsenal have also held exploratory conversations regarding Mason Mount, who is approaching the final year of his contract at Chelsea. Mount is also a target for Liverpool.
Mount is 24 years of age and has taken in 192 appearances for Chelsea, while representing his country at senior level on 36 occasions. There are suggestions that he has been undervalued at west London in recent seasons, with a sizeable wage increase now being sought that recognises his standing as a senior star.
Rice’s contract with the Hammers is set to expire next year meaning there is a higher chance that Arsenal will be able to negotiate a lower fee than in a deal for Caicedo. The West Ham star has rejected proposals for a new contract and has reiterated his desire to play for a team in the Champions League and compete for trophies on a consistent basis.
