Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta has issued an update regarding their pursuit of West Ham United talisman Declan Rice. While their interest remains strong, the Gunners are still biding their time [via Fabrizio Romano on Twitter].

Arsenal are still very keen to complete a deal for the England international, but they have yet to open talks out of ‘respect’ for his current club. However, talks with the midfielder are set to take place in June, after the conclusion of the ongoing Premier League season.

In Romano’s tweet, he wrote: “Arsenal are preparing opening proposal for Declan Rice as he remains the priority target for summer transfer window; they could sign two midfielders depending on outgoings. No negotiations now to respect West Ham; talks will take place in June.”

What would Declan Rice add to Arsenal?

The addition of Declan Rice could, potentially, revolutionise Arsenal’s style of play. While they already have a brilliant defensive midfielder in the form of Thomas Partey, he has one key weakness – his passing is not quite up to the standard that is required at the highest level.

From a defensive standpoint, Partey is excellent. Nevertheless, so is Rice – and the 24-year-old also possesses an adept range of passing to back up his defensive acumen.

On top of this, Rice is also reported to be a good influence within West Ham’s dressing room – this may seem superficial, but it can make a massive difference during those key games in a season.

Rice just gets better and better with each passing year. This season, he has begun to add a knack for goalscoring to his arsenal – he has scored four goals in all competitions for the Irons.

Arsenal are not the only club who are thought to be interested in Rice – Manchester United also reportedly want to bring the West Ham captain to the club. As such, the Gunners will have to act fast to avoid embarrassment.