Update: Arsenal have emerged as clear favourites to land long-term £80m transfer target Declan Rice.

With West Ham fighting for their top flight future, the East Londoners could be forced into a fire sale if they were to be relegated. 

With Mikel Arteta's Premier League table toppers set to seal qualification for next season's Champions League for the first time in six years, the lure of Europe's most promient competition will be too much for the coveted West Ham midfielder to ignore. 

Arsenal are confident of beating struggling Chelsea to the signing of Rice - with the England and West Ham United midfielder, valued at around £80 million.

The in-form Gunners could also renew their interest in Moisés Caicedo after failing to land the Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder in the January transfer window.

While Chelsea still want to sign Rice and will battle Arsenal to sign the West Ham midfielder this summer, it is understood Champions League football will be the decider providing the terms offered by the Gunners will suit Rice and his advisors. 

Rice is expected to leave the Hammers this summer with his current contract due to expire in 2024