Arsenal have almost finalised talks with West Ham United over the payment structure for the signing of Declan Rice, and the deal should be settled by Monday.

Jacob Steinberg reported on Friday afternoon that talks over the payment structure for Declan Rice’s £105m move to Arsenal were almost finalised.

Jordan Davies then claimed that sources close to the deal were hoping for an agreement on payment terms by Monday.

Mikel Arteta is reportedly keen to get Rice fully integrated at Arsenal before the pre-season tour of the United States, with the Gunners playing their first game in the U.S. on July 20th.

Sami Mokbel confirms that Arsenal and West Ham are now closing the final details of the move, and Fabrizio Romano reports that the deal is now “really, really close” and Rice is expected to become an Arsenal player very soon.

Despite delays, it seems everything is moving in a positive direction.

Arsenal initially wanted to pay over four or five years, whilst the Hammers were looking to receive the entire guaranteed fee within 18 months.

But despite the need to compromise, there’s never been a suggestion that the move would fall apart over this issue.

David Ornstein recently reported that he expects Arsenal will do what they need to do to get the deal done, having had a fee accepted, and the move “should get wrapped up in due course”.

Manchester City have made it clear they don’t plan to match Arsenal’s bid, meaning the only realistic options are a move to north London or a stay with West Ham.

Rice is currently on holiday, after finally concluding a long season with a couple of games on international duty.

The 24-year-old made 50 appearances for West Ham and 11 appearances for England over the last 12 months.

After a well-earned break, it looks like the 24-year-old will be linking up with new teammates in pre-season.