Key figures in Real Madrid’s recruitment team are urging the club to pursue a move for Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice.

They have been impressed with Rice’s performances since he joined the Gunners.

The 27-year-old England international’s leadership, physicality and technical qualities would also make him a good addition to any squad.

Rice was one of the standout players for Arsenal, as they ended a 22-year wait for the Premier League title.

In total, Rice contributed five goals and seven assists in the season that just ended.

It remains to be seen if Arsenal would be willing to sell one of their key players, whom they paid £100m for in 2023.

That transfer made him the joint-most-expensive English player in history.