Arsenal believe they can beat Premier League transfer rivals Chelsea, Manchester United and Manchester City to the signing of Declan Rice this summer.
The West Ham United captain is expected to leave east London at the end of the season to play for a club competing in the Champions League.
The Gunners have identified central midfield as an area to strengthen and have made Rice their top target.
The Standard state: “There is growing confidence at the club they can win the race to sign him amid competition from Chelsea and both Manchester clubs.
“Rice is viewed as the ideal addition as he suits Arsenal’s recruitment model.
The West Ham captain is 24 and has his best years ahead of him.
Like the rest of the Arsenal squad, Rice is ambitious, wanting to play in the Champions League and compete for trophies.
“There is an acceptance at West Ham that Rice will leave this summer.
He is in the final two years of his contract and has no plans to sign an extension.”
