The Athletic have reported that Chelsea are preparing a January attempt to sign West Ham midfielder Declan Rice for £60m.
Rice, already a vastly experienced operator for someone just 21 years old, was heavily linked with a move away from London Stadium over the summer, and a transfer to Stamford Bridge was believed to be the most likely outcome.
It seems Frank Lampard hasn’t given up hope of making the England international a Chelsea player in the not too distant future.
The Hammers would surely be reluctant to let such an important player leave midway through the campaign. Rice has played every minute in the top flight for the Irons this season and has taken the captain’s armband as Mark Noble watches on from the bench.
The England man has played mainly as a defensive midfielder this term, but has been used at centre-back under David Moyes.
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Chelsea’s interest in Rice is something of an unkept secret, and not one which West Ham will appreciate.
Whilst the reported fee of £60m doesn’t seem too far off the mark in terms of value, in terms of importance to the team, it’s difficult to put a price on the midfielder.
Alongside Tomas Soucek, Rice has formed a partnership in the heart of the Hammers midfield and fans would likely be disappointed to see someone so young and with such potential leave the club, particularly for a London rival.
Moyes and the Irons’ board would have to take serious consideration into the effect of accepting any bid for one of the most important assets currently at the London Stadium.
This summer, the club faced the wrath of many fans and the captain himself following the decision to allow Grady Diangana to leave the club after coming through the academy. The reaction could be even more vociferous if Rice is allowed to cross the capital to Stamford Bridge.
