Liverpool are reportedly ‘in contact’ with West Ham United as they look to sign Declan Rice this summer, who is a key target for Arsenal.

It’s no secret that Jurgen Klopp is keen to bolster his midfield in the upcoming transfer window. So, it would be a major coup if the Reds could bring in the England international.

Indeed, Rice has established himself as one of the best defensive midfielders in the Premier League. Arsenal are unlikely to back down in their pursuit, though, so there could be a bidding war for his services.

Liverpool have endured a largely disappointing season. They currently sit in fifth place in the table, one point behind Manchester United, but they have played two more games than their rivals.

As a result, it looks unlikely they will qualify for the Champions League. Now, Klopp is looking to re-energise his squad ahead of next term, particularly in midfield.

Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and James Milner are all expected to leave Anfield this summer, which will leave Liverpool in need of more than one new midfielder.

Signing Rice would be a huge signing for the Reds, but as mentioned, Arsenal may prove to be tough to beat in the race.

READ MORE: Liverpool told deal for £50m-rated midfielder is on and star will ‘have his head turned’ by Klopp if offer is made

Liverpool eye Rice and Mac Allister moves

Now, according to reputed journalist Rudy Galetti, Liverpool are in contact with West Ham over signing Rice. They have also ramped up their interest in another key target, Alexis Mac Allister.

On Twitter, Galetti wrote: “Liverpool have identified Alexis Mac Allister and Declan Rice as main targets for the midfield: everything confirmed, as already told in November.

“Contacts ongoing with Brighton and West Ham for their respective players: evolving situation.”

As noted by TEAMtalk, Liverpool have reportedly reached a ‘verbal agreement’ with Mac Allister. Indeed, the Reds are now thought to be the favourites to sign the World Cup winner – despite interest from Man Utd and Chelsea.

If Liverpool could sign both Mac Allister and Rice this summer, they could turn into a real force again next term.

However, a move for Rice will not be cheap. Indeed, West Ham have reportedly slapped a £100m valuation on their star man.

With that in mind, Liverpool will have to put their money where their mouth is to get a deal done. Now, it will be interesting to see if either the Reds or Arsenal meet the Hammers’ hefty price tag.

READ MORE: Klopp told why Liverpool have big advantage over Man Utd in top-four chase as Ten Hag prepares for ‘season-defining’ clash

The article Liverpool ‘in contact’ with £100m Arsenal target as Klopp eyes outrageous midfield double deal appeared first on Teamtalk.com.