Newcastle’s stance on battling Arsenal and Manchester United for Declan Rice

The England international is set to leave the London Stadium this summer, and West Ham will reluctantly let him go.

However, the Hammers want around £100m for the 24-year-old and they expect the likes of Manchester United and Arsenal to compete for his signature.

Both Erik ten Hag and Mikel Arteta are huge admirers of Rice, and they can offer the midfielder Champions League football next term.

But, having sealed a top four spot on Monday night, Newcastle can offer Rice the same and he’d be an even bigger fixture in the Magpies’ side than he would at the Emirates or Old Trafford.

Eddie Howe wants to sign players to go straight into the starting XI and the Magpies could afford West Ham’s asking price.

However, Rice will command wages of around £300,000-a-week and he would instantly become the club’s top earner.

Newcastle are wary of Financial Fair Play regulations and while there’s more relaxation over spending, salaries are a different matter.

MORE : Xavi questions decision to rescind Vinicius Junior red card amid racism storm

For more stories like this, check our sport page.