West Ham's Declan Rice emerges as top target for Bayern Munich

Reports indicate that Bayern have identified two key areas to address during the summer transfer window. Coach Thomas Tuchel is eager to fortify his midfield options, specifically by signing a formidable holding midfielder. In this pursuit, Tuchel has his sights set on an influential player in the Premier League.

Florian Plettenberg, a reputable journalist at Sky Sports Germany, reveals that Bayern have earmarked West Ham United's Declan Rice as their primary target for the number six role. Discussions with the player's agent have taken place, yet completing the transfer proves to be an arduous task due to the hefty transfer fee involved. Adding to the challenge, Arsenal has also set their sights on Rice as their marquee summer signing.

West Ham United, keen to capitalize on Rice's exceptional abilities, is determined to secure a fee in the region of £100 million. This valuation effectively eliminates Bayern from contention unless they can successfully convince Rice to reject advances from other Premier League clubs and embrace a move to Munich.

Interestingly, Rice was also a transfer target for Chelsea during Tuchel's tenure. However, the English midfielder's contract length with West Ham hindered any potential move. Currently, Rice possesses just one year remaining on his deal, with an option for West Ham to extend it by an additional 12 months.

For West Ham, the upcoming summer transfer window presents a golden opportunity to secure a substantial fee for Rice. The involvement of multiple prominent English clubs adds complexity to the situation, rendering Die Roten's pursuit more challenging. Financial constraints prevent the Bundesliga record-holders from acquiring both a top-class striker and midfielder unless a significant departure from their squad transpires.

Rice's exceptional performances as a defensive midfielder in the Premier League, coupled with his commendable displays for the English national team, have rightfully earned him recognition. Therefore, Tuchel's desire to acquire his services for Bayern comes as no surprise, as Rice possesses the qualities to seamlessly integrate into the squad and make an immediate impact.

Regrettably for Bayern, they cannot outbid the financial might of the Premier League's powerhouses when it comes to acquiring top English talent. As a result, the Bavarian club must redirect their attention towards alternative options in the transfer market.

Although initially linked with Ajax midfielder Edson Alvarez, Bayern have opted against pursuing the Mexican international. The club's primary target for the holding midfield role will be disclosed following the annual general meeting at the close of this season.