ARSENAL are using a “secret weapon” to try and secure the signing of Declan Rice.
The Gunners hold a five-point lead over Manchester City at the top of the Premier League table in what has been a sensational season to date.
And last night’s impressive 4-0 victory over Everton only strengthened their title hopes.
However, as we reported yesterday, Arsenal are still set for wholesale changes in the summer transfer window as they eye FOUR signings which could lead to SIX departures.
Mikel Arteta wants to bring in two central midfielders, a winger and a left-back at the end of the season.
And West Ham skipper Rice, 24, is one of his top transfer targets.
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The North London club face competition from both Manchester United and Chelsea for the England international.
Rice’s contract expires at the end of next season, with West Ham having the option to extend that by a further 12 months.
However, many inside the East London club are resigned to the fact this will be his final campaign, with boss David Moyes hoping to bring in over £100m for his services.
And according to the Daily Mail, Arsenal are using a “secret agent” to beat their rivals to his signature.
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Arsenal U18 coach Jack Wilshere, who returned to the Emirates in the summer, was a former team-mate of Rice’s at West Ham.
The pair “formed a close relationship during their time playing together” and “have remained tight”.
The report also states that “the Wilshere-factor could well be an influencer as Rice decides his next destination”.
Writing exclusively for Sun Sport during the World Cup, Wilshere said: “I also enjoyed seeing Declan Rice bringing the ball forward into the opposition half and trying to get attacks going.
“At West Ham, I used to say to him he should score more goals, as he has two great feet and is a fantastic finisher.
“If he adds goalscoring to his game, he will be a £100million man.”
Rice has scored just twice for the Hammers so far this term.
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