Rival star lavishes praise on Chelsea ace in a possible hint of Stamford Bridge switch

Chelsea star N’Golo Kante is a source of inspiration for Declan Rice

According to The Times, West Ham United star Declan Rice has admitted that he takes inspiration from Chelsea ace N’Golo Kante.

The Frenchman is one of the best defensive midfielders in the world and is a key cog for both club and country. Coming on the back of an injury-hit season, Kante is now back to his best both in terms of form and fitness.

Rice too has impressed in recent weeks and continues to go from strength to strength. His development will be watched with interest by Chelsea, who were keen on him last summer.

Despite missing out on him, the Blues continue to be linked to the Hammers star. The fact that Rice admires the player occupying his position at the Bridge can be seen as a welcome move.

“The main one I’ve always watched is Kanté in my position. The way he protects the back four, the way he intercepts, always in position.”

While he believes he does a decent job, Rice also added that he still has a long way to go. At just 21, the youngster is already playing at a high level. He has age on his side and can develop into a top-class player.

With the January transfer window nearing, links between us and Rice will once again continue to flourish.

Any signing will only be possible after we sell players on our roster. Two players who could make way for Rice are Kepa Arrizabalaga and Antonio Rudiger.

More Chelsea News

• Chelsea star Kai Havertz reveals his best position to Frank Lampard
• Chelsea loanee Ross Barkley escapes punishment for breaking Covid-19 restrictions
• Bayern Munich expect David Alaba to leave the club in the summer amidst Chelsea interest

If Kante is the past and the present, Rice is the future. The Frenchman will turn 30 before the season ends and the club will need to start looking for a replacement soon.

It was reported earlier that the Blues are keen to hold onto Kante until 2022. This should give Rice enough time to hone his skills better and prepare himself if we do come calling.