'Tough' to leave West Ham - Rice nears Arsenal move

Rice helped West Ham win the Europa Conference League last season

England midfielder Declan Rice says it has been a "tough" decision to leave West Ham but "it has only ever been about my ambition to play at the very highest level of the game".

West Ham also confirmed the 24-year-old was leaving the club.

"The last few days and weeks have been an absolute whirlwind of emotion," said Rice.

"I want you to know how tough a decision it has been for me to leave an environment that I have loved and cherished so much.

"Ultimately, though, it has only ever been about my ambition to play at the very highest level of the game."

More to follow.

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