In the fast-paced summer transfer market, Jamal Musiala, the star player of Bayern Munich, suggested an interesting twist that could impact Arsenal's prospective £90 million bid for West Ham's acclaimed midfielder Declan Rice.
Musiala, a former Chelsea academy associate of Rice, revealed in a candid interaction, "We've had discussions with Rice. He would have been a good addition to our team!" Although he didn't divulge more, his statement certainly ignited speculations about Rice's future plans.
Previously, Bayern Munich's influential player, Leon Goretzka, also hinted at potential movement in the summer transfer market involving West Ham's star midfielder Declan Rice, which could leave Arsenal's £90 million bid hanging in the balance.
The German international, Goretzka, stirred the pot during a recent interview with Fussball Transfers. He said, "We've had some conversations with Rice, and I like him as a player. I won't go into details, but conversations have been held." His cryptic comment has added fuel to speculations about Rice's future in the Premier League, with Bayern Munich now seemingly in the mix.
The unfolding transfer scenario becomes even more intriguing considering Arsenal's stymied first formal offer for Rice. With the Hammers rebuffing the bid that included a base fee of £80 million dispersed over six years plus a conditional £10 million in add-ons, Arsenal's pursuit has hit a roadblock.
Although Arsenal is still viewed as the frontrunner to secure Rice, lurking interest from Chelsea and Manchester City could potentially derail their plans. West Ham reportedly anticipates a fee nearing £100 million, an amount that Bayern Munich, despite their interest, would likely struggle to match considering the financial prowess of Premier League clubs.
Meanwhile, Arsenal's quest for Federico Chiesa, the Italian international from Juventus, is on a shaky ground, with their £90 million bid possibly hitting a snag. The 25-year-old's future, given Juventus' financial strain due to their recent penalty by FIGC, might be at a crossroads, with other leading clubs including Real Madrid and Liverpool eagerly observing the developments.
In another riveting narrative, Chelsea is setting its sights on Andre Onana, the Inter Milan goalkeeper, with a potential deal estimated at a substantial £55 million. Despite a previous bid being turned down, it appears the English club might soon secure the services of the Cameroonian star, who has expressed his desire to play in the Premier League.
Amid all these machinations, David Moyes, the West Ham manager, seems to have accepted the inevitable departure of their captain, Rice. However, rumors suggest Moyes might have a specific preference for Chelsea, with the potential inclusion of Conor Gallagher in any deal.
Rice, on the other hand, reportedly has no intention of rejoining his former club, Chelsea. He is understood to have committed to joining Mikel Arteta's vision at the Emirates Stadium, possibly bringing some clarity amidst the swirling transfer rumors.
This summer transfer window already promises high drama with clubs jostling for marquee players. The unfolding saga involving Rice, Chiesa, and Onana is just the beginning, with more twists and turns anticipated in the coming weeks.
