Arsenal’s pursuit of West Ham’s Declan Rice could be thrown into disarray as Manchester United enter the chase.

Reports suggest the Red Devils are ready to propose a player-plus-cash deal that could tip the scales in their favour, making the Gunners’ journey to signing Rice even more challenging.

PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC: Declan Rice, Captain of West Ham United lifts the UEFA Europa Conference League trophy after the team's victory over ACF Fiorentina on June 07, 2023. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)
PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC: Declan Rice, Captain of West Ham United lifts the UEFA Europa Conference League trophy after the team’s victory over ACF Fiorentina on June 07, 2023. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)

Manchester United steps into the race

Declan Rice Arsenal transfers - LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 21: Declan Rice of West Ham United takes to the field with a child prior to the Premier League match between West Ham United and Leeds United at London Stadium on May 21, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 21: Declan Rice of West Ham United takes to the field with a child prior to the Premier League match between West Ham United and Leeds United at London Stadium on May 21, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Manchester United are considering a fresh approach in their pursuit of Declan Rice.

In a move that could significantly shake Arsenal’s plans, the Red Devils are looking to sanction a player-plus-cash offer for the West Ham skipper.

West Ham rejects Arsenal’s £90m bid

PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC: Declan Rice, Captain of West Ham United lifts the UEFA Europa Conference League trophy after the team's victory over ACF Fiorentina on June 07, 2023. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)
PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC: Declan Rice, Captain of West Ham United lifts the UEFA Europa Conference League trophy after the team’s victory over ACF Fiorentina on June 07, 2023. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)

Arsenal’s £90 million bid for Rice has been rejected, adding a new dimension to the transfer saga.

The Gunners, despite their eagerness, are now facing a more complex situation, with United monitoring the developments closely, but a third Arsenal bid is expected.

The alternative approach of United

United, under the watch of Erik ten Hag, are considering an offer of either club captain Harry Maguire or Scott McTominay in a deal that includes a cash sum.

Arsenal’s future strategy

Declan Rice Arsenal transfers - LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 21: Declan Rice of West Ham United celebrates after scoring the team's first goal during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Leeds United at London Stadium on May 21, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 21: Declan Rice of West Ham United celebrates after scoring the team’s first goal during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Leeds United at London Stadium on May 21, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Despite the situation, Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal reportedly remain in the driving seat for Rice’s signature.

They are likely to revisit their strategy and table a more appealing offer in the coming weeks.

The Gunners’ pursuit of Rice signifies their ambition to bring top-tier talent to the Emirates Stadium.

However, with Manchester United joining the race, the competition has intensified, making Arsenal’s pursuit of Declan Rice all the more intriguing.