Arsenal handed free Declan Rice run as Man City ‘pull out’ but obstacle remains | Football | Sport

“He is someone we have monitored for a very long time and always we were impressed whenever we watched him. I am delighted he is here. This is a great signing for this club, and I am very excited to watch what he can do with Pep and the rest of our backroom team.”

Kovacic is clearly seen as someone who can provide cover for Rodri and Kalvin Phillips in addition to replacing Gundogan, which City may have considered as they were tasked with countering Arsenal’s £105m offer. Rice’s preference is also said to be remaining in London at the Emirates, giving the Gunners further advantage over City.

However, Arsenal’s improved offer for Rice forcing City to pull out of any negotiations appear to have put the Gunners in the driving seat to land their top target.