Arsenal’s midfield general Declan Rice is reportedly attracting serious attention from Real Madrid, as the Spanish giants prepare for another blockbuster summer in the transfer market.

The 26-year-old has been a cornerstone of Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal since completing his £100 million move from West Ham United in 2023.

His impact was immediate — leadership, control, and a growing reputation as one of Europe’s finest all-round midfielders.

Since then, Rice has made 119 appearances, scoring 18 goals, and helping Arsenal to the top of the Premier League table this season — six points clear of Manchester City.

In the UEFA Champions League, the Gunners remain perfect, winning all four matches and keeping clean sheets in each.

Declan Rice rise has made him one of Europe’s most coveted players

According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, Real Madrid have placed Rice among their top transfer targets for 2026 as they seek to reinforce their midfield for both the present and future.

The report suggests that Arsenal will not consider selling their star man for less than €150 million, a figure that reflects both his quality and his importance to Arteta’s long-term project.

“For Arsenal, Rice isn’t just a key tactical piece,” the report adds. “He’s a generational player who defines the club’s identity. That’s why they have no intention of lowering his price despite Madrid’s interest.”

However, it’s understood that Real Madrid’s financial priorities for the upcoming transfer window — including possible moves in other positions — could limit their resources to pursue such an expensive deal.

Rice’s connection with Madrid goes beyond speculation — he famously scored two spectacular free-kicks against Los Blancos in a 3-0 win during last season’s Champions League quarter-final, before Arsenal were eliminated by Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals.

For now, Arsenal fans can breathe easily.

But with Real Madrid’s history of persistence in the market, the saga surrounding Declan Rice’s future may just be getting started.