DECLAN RICE has reportedly held a phone call with Thomas Tuchel over a summer move to Bayern Munich.
And further reports claim an initial £95million bid is set to be submitted by the German champions as they look to beat Arsenal to the punch.
West Ham captain and England star Rice is hot property as he approaches the final year of his contract.
And, although the Londoners have an option to extend it for a further season, it’s reckoned there’s a gentleman’s agreement to sell Rice for a record British transfer fee – currently held by £107m Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez.
Arsenal are thought to be leading the race after narrowly missing out on their first Premier League title in almost two decades.
Manchester United are also monitoring the situation as they mull an attempt to hijack Arsenal’s deal.
And Rice’s choice could have a huge bearing on the future of Chelsea star Mason Mount, with the pals hoping to play at the same club next season.
However, Bayern have thrown a spanner in the works after making their interest known last week.
Boss Tuchel wanted to bring Rice to Stamford Bridge during his Chelsea days.
And Sky Sports Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg claims the pair held a productive phone call over the weekend, with both sharing a mutual appreciation.
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He says Rice is open to joining Bayern, with the Germans now ready to up their pursuit.
But they will have to move quickly, with Arsenal apparently closing in on his signature.
Meanwhile, the Mirror claims a bid is already set to arrive from Bayern
The Bundesliga giants are said to be ready to splash £95m on Rice, with Tuchel “determined” to beat Mikel Arteta.
Bayern are unlikely to be able to pay anything like that fee up front, but could offer a structured deal or players in return.
And they hope an early bid could put a swift end to the transfer saga once and for all.
