Former Tottenham and England striker Darren Bent has suggested whilst on TalkSport that Chelsea should pursue West Ham midfielder Declan Rice when the transfer window reopens.
Bent stated that Rice, who is currently away on international duty with England, is an ‘upgrade’ on current Chelsea defensive midfielder N’Golo Kante.
The 21-year-old, who has been with the club since 2014 when he arrived at the academy from Chelsea, won ‘Hammer of the Year’ this summer and has seen his stock rise with him cementing his place as part of Gareth Southgate’s England plans.
Much was made of Frank Lampard’s interest in the West Ham man, however with the transfer window now closed any reignition of interest would have to wait until January at the earliest.
The speculation over Rice’s future has reared once more following the reports suggesting Lampard has fallen out with World Cup winner and two-time Premier League winner Kante.
READ WEST HAM VERDICT
Having staved off the speculation surrounding Rice over the course of the summer, David Moyes will be delighted to have retained the services of such a key member of his squad.
However, Moyes will know as well as anybody associated with his current squad needs to be operating well away from the threat of relegation to ensure Rice remains a Hammer for the long-term.
For the club to reach the desired heights of European competition the retention of the likes of Rice will be a pivotal aspect.
Comments.
Loading comments…