Arsenal Have 3 Alternatives To Declan Rice Amid Manchester City Hijack Concerns

Arsenal‘s pursuit of Declan Rice continues despite their initial bid being rejected. The Gunners’ opening offer of £80 million plus £10 million in add-ons was turned down by the player’s current club.

However, there is growing interest from Manchester City which raises concerns for Arsenal. If they fail to secure Rice, Arsenal’s sporting director, Edu will need to shift focus to alternative targets to bolster their midfield.

There are a number of potential options for the Gunners with varying levels of age, expense and availability.

READ ALSO: Arsenal Eyeing Chukwueze As Potential Replacement For Flop Who’ll Be Sold For Any Fee ‘However Small’

Infoexpert24 takes a look at the potential options available to the Gunners.

1. Moises Caicedo

One potential alternative is Moises Caicedo. Arsenal expressed interest in the Brighton midfielder during the January transfer window, and sources suggest that this interest has persisted into the summer.

While negotiations for Rice remain the priority, the outcome of those talks could determine whether Arsenal rekindles their pursuit of Caicedo.

However, they may face competition from other clubs such as Chelsea and Manchester United, making the battle for the 21-year-old’s signature highly competitive.

READ ALSO: Arsenal Begin Talks To Sign Leicester City Star As Their Second Summer Target

2. Martin Zubimendi

Arsenal has also shown prolonged interest in Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi. The Spanish international is coveted by Barcelona as a long-term replacement for the departing Sergio Busquets.

The challenge lies in convincing Zubimendi to leave, despite his €60 million (£51.4 million) buyout clause.

He has expressed his desire to remain at Real Sociedad, but a substantial bid from Arsenal could potentially sway his decision to make the move to North London.

3. Joshua Kimmich

Arsenal has been linked with Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich, alongside clubs like Barcelona, Manchester City, and Saudi Arabian sides.

Since joining Bayern from RB Leipzig in 2015, Kimmich has established himself as one of the world’s top players.

READ ALSO: Arsenal Set To Hijack Chelsea Target, Prepare £75m Bid As Club Change Transfer Stance

With Arsenal’s financial capability to make significant investments in midfield this summer, a substantial offer might tempt Bayern to part ways with their versatile star.

However, Bayern’s reported interest in Rice could complicate matters for Kimmich in terms of playing time.

Arsenal’s ability to secure an alternative for Declan Rice if the deal does not pull through will be crucial in shaping their midfield plans for the upcoming season.