Bayern Munich pull out of Declan Rice race, pave way for Arsenal

Bayern Munich has pulled out of the race to sign Declan Rice, giving Arsenal a chance to complete a transfer for the West Ham United captain.

Rice is set to leave West Ham after nine years at the club, and one as captain. Demand for the 24-year-old midfielder has been high for a number of years. His magnificent performances in the heart of the Irons midfield have made him a major star for club and country.

With two years remaining on his Hammers deal, Rice has made it clear he wants to take his career to the next level.

The Gunners made the midfielder their priority summer signing and were facing competition from the German giants, with Bayern manager Thomas Tuchel reportedly speaking to the midfielder in recent weeks.

However, Bayern Munich withdrew their interest following a meeting of board members on Tuesday, June 13.

German transfer guru Florian Plettenberg has now disclosed that Bayern has decided against making a firm approach. He tweeted;

“News #Rice: NO transfer! Bayern has decided today not to submit an offer after all – confirmed. It was the clear trend for days and as reported on Friday, because Rice became more and more expensive. He’s on verge to join @Arsenal now! First call BILD. @SkySportDE.”

News #Rice: NO transfer! Bayern has decided today not to submit an offer after all – confirmed ✅

➡️ It was the clear trend for days and as reported on Friday, because Rice became more and more expensive.

He’s on verge to join @Arsenal now! First call BILD. @SkySportDE ???????????????????????????? pic.twitter.com/AXLFKWCnPa

— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) June 13, 2023

With Bayern Munich out of the picture, Arsenal has been handed the opportunity to sign Declan Rice. Manchester United and Chelsea have previously shown an interest but Rice looks set to move to the Emirates Stadium with Arsenal closing in on a deal.

West Ham have previously set an asking price of £120m for Rice, though the Gunners are hopeful a deal worth around £100m will be agreed. Any deal will smash Arsenal’s previous club-record outlay of £72million on flop winger Nicolas Pepe.

Rice has been expected to leave this summer and last week West Ham chairman David Sullivan confirmed the midfielder was promised a big move.