Arsenal Step Up Transfer Pursuit: Declan Rice Spotted with Edu and Josh Kroenke at Match

As Arsenal recuperates from their crushing defeat against Manchester City, efforts are being made in the background to ensure that their quest for the title this season is more than just a fleeting success.

On Wednesday night, Arsenal suffered a devastating 4-1 loss at the Etihad, a setback that dealt a significant blow to their aspirations of winning the Premier League title.

With two more games played than their closest rivals, Mikel Arteta's team is now only two points ahead of City.

For most of the season, the Gunners have been at the top of the league, so failing to deliver in the final months of the campaign would be a significant letdown.

There are expectations that Arteta will receive substantial financial support during the upcoming summer transfer window, to capitalize on the progress made this season and ensure that the club remains competitive for trophies in the following year.

Acquiring a new midfielder is Arteta's primary objective in the transfer market, with the club's top priority being the signing of West Ham's captain, Declan Rice.

Earlier this week, Rice was seen at the Emirates Stadium, attending the FA Youth Cup final between Arsenal and West Ham. The England international was present as the Hammers secured a commanding 5-1 victory.

According to The Telegraph, Rice was seated in the directors' box alongside West Ham's sporting director and former teammate, Mark Noble.

Edu, Arsenal's sporting director, and the club's co-chair, Josh Kroenke, were also present at the match.

Although it is uncertain if Rice had a conversation with Edu and Kroenke, the fact that they were all present at the game has sparked rumors that the West Ham skipper could make a move to the Emirates during the summer transfer window.

Rice is under contract with West Ham until 2024 and has rejected the offer an improved long-term deal at the London Stadium.

In addition to Arsenal, Chelsea are also thought to be interested in them midfielder, who played for the west London club at youth level.

Rice has previously expressed his admiration for Arsenal and their style of play under Arteta.

"They are a top team. You can see they are coached incredibly well, have a lot of attacking talent, a young squad and they can go the whole way for sure," Rice said after facing the Gunners earlier this season.

Arsenal may need to break their transfer record to sign the England international, with West Ham expected to demand at least £80m for his signature.