Money talks as Chelsea plan to hijack Arsenal top target

Chelsea are reportedly once again ready to annoy Arsenal fans a little more by going after Arteta's top summer target, Declan Rice. 

The Blues already came out of nowhere to hijack a deal for Ukrainian star, Mykhailo Mudryk who seemed set to join Arsenal. 

Declan Rice is hot topic once again, as he should be. He is having a brilliant season for a struggling West Ham team, continuing his consistent form over the past few seasons. 

He has often been the only bright spot in a series of disappointing performances and it is increasingly likely he will be looking for new pastures in the summer.

Arsenal have been heavily linked and it has even been reported that the Gunners will do everything possible to bring Rice to the Emirates.

While it seemed like Mikel Arteta had a clear path to his signature, Chelsea are now ready to swoop in, according to The Express. 

Chelsea have long been linked with a move for Rice. He spent time in the club's academy until he was released at the age of 14. 

The Blues acquired Argentine World Cup-winning midfielder Enzo Fernandes for £106m in the January window and an opportunity to pair him with rice might be too good to turn down. 

Chelsea might be able to offer a bigger financial package but it remains to be seen what decision Rice makes in the summer. 

West Ham will likely demand a huge fee to let him leave and it appears Chelsea are now willing to pay whatever it costs.