Of course, City’s embarrassment of riches, boosted by their sporting success last season, doesn’t rule out the worst-case scenario.
If Guardiola wants Rice to replace Barcelona-bound captain Ilkay Gundogan, the club will try to lure him to the Etihad Stadium.
But any hesitation while attempting to secure deals for Gvardiol and Kovacic will work in Arsenal’s favour.
Mikel Arteta views strengthening his midfield as crucial ahead of next season, with Granit Xhaka leaving for Bayer Leverkusen and Thomas Partey also in the shop window.
And City’s intensified pursuit of Gvardiol should be only good news for their Rice dream.
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