Transfer expert Rudy Galetti says that Arsenal have made 'first contacts' over the potential signing of West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice in the summer.

The Lowdown: Rice interest

It was reported by Spanish sources earlier this week that Mikel Arteta has given the 'green light' to sign the 23-year-old in the summer, with the Hammers valuing him at around €100m (£88m).

Journalist Ben Jacobs has recently backed up claims of Arsenal's interest, adding that the Irons captain could even be sold for around £70m-£75m instead.

Rice would reportedly like to stay in London, opening the door for the Gunners as well as Chelsea, while Manchester United are also said to be admirers of the England international.

The Latest: 'First contacts' made

Taking to Twitter, Galetti says that the Premier League leaders have now made 'first contacts' over the potential signing of Rice in the summer, adding that it is an 'evolving situation'.

He tweeted: "#Arsenal have put in their sights Declan #Rice. #AFC want to buy a defensive midfielder in the summer and the #WestHam player is a concrete option. First contacts already happened: evolving situation."

The Verdict: No-brainer

It is a no-brainer for Arsenal to go for Rice this summer, given their strong position in the Premier League table and the likelihood that they will be able to offer him Champions League football for next season, something that the 23-year-old has recently stated as an ambition for his career.

Hailed as a 'monster', a 'force of nature', a 'leader' and a 'serious talent' by journalist Rob Blanchette, there are not many better players in Rice's position, while former England international Paul Parker even believes that the West Ham skipper is the 'best central midfielder in the country'.

Rice showed his glowing admiration for Arteta and Arsenal on Boxing Day when the Gunners beat his team 3-1 at the Emirates Stadium, so a move to north London makes a lot of sense for both parties.