Arsenal line up EXCITING Declan Rice alternative

Tom Weber

• Updated: 26 Jun 2023 20:23 BST
• 3 min read

Arsenal have a Plan B lined up should they fail to land Declan Rice, according to a report.

The Gunners have been trying to strike a deal for the West Ham captain for weeks, but their approaches have thus far been rebuffed by the Hammers, who are holding steadfast to their valuation north of €100 million.

With Manchester City reportedly circling and ready to enter the fray, what seemed like an all-but-done deal for Arsenal is suddenly something to worry about. There are conflicting reports as to who is holding the advantage in the race to sign Rice, so if push comes to shove the Gunners may eventually be forced to go after alternatives.

And they do already have one other option lined up, according to French media.

READ: Arsenal could WIN the transfer window this week with triple signing

Arsenal want Fofana

L'Equipe claims that the Gunners are eyeing a move for Monaco star Youssouf Fofana should they fail to get the Rice deal over the line. And he certainly seems like an attractive option considering that he could apparently be a had for just £30 million (€35m) - pocket change compared to the money West Ham are asking for.

There is, however, the issue that Mikel Arteta and company aren't the only suitors. As we exclusively reported last week, Newcastle are also looking at the 24-year-old as a target.

EXCLUSIVE: Newcastle keen on Monaco star Youssouf Fofana

Moreover, the Frenchman is the subject of interest from Serie A, with Inter and Roma linked. Ironically, West Ham are also said to be looking at Fofana - as a Rice replacement.

Why? Because he is quickly becoming a key part of France's senior national team, having started in the semi-final at the World Cup and also featuring in the final against Argentina. The 24-year-old was ever-present in Monaco's side last term, contributing with two goals and two assists from midfield.