Arsenal handed Declan Rice and LaLiga star boost while Folarin Balogun makes key transfer decision...

Declan Rice 'raving' about Arsenal

Mikel Arteta is thought to be in the market for midfield recruits this summer, and West Ham midfielder Rice has emerged as his priority target.

Although he is expected to be the subject of interest from Premier League rivals Manchester United and Chelsea, fresh reports may have given Arsenal the upper hand.

Journalist Miguel Delaney claimed that Rice 'admires' the way Arsenal play, and enjoys watching them play with his teammates.

Delaney told the Independent: "Rice is meanwhile said to be a particular admirer of how Arsenal play, seeing that as one of the best approaches in European football right now.

"He has raved about them while watching them with the rest of the West Ham squad. That would make any signing all the more ideal, especially as opportunities are limited elsewhere."

Folarin Balogun makes key transfer decision

Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun has made headlines all season following his prolific spell on loan at Reims, notching 19 league goals for the French club.

At the tender age of just 21, Balogun has amassed interest from all over Europe, as he weighs up his future in north London.

It is thought he will return to the Emirates at the end of the season where a decision will be made over the next step in his career, with the England Under-21 international against another loan move.

However, Balogun looks to have made up his mind already, with his verdict hinging on one key component.

Football Insider report that Balogun does not want to return to Arsenal next season unless he is 'guaranteed first-team minutes', a feat which could prove difficult when bearing in mind the presence of Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah.