Chelsea to change their stance on £80m-rated Lampard target

Chelsea could refresh Declan Rice transfer after Frank Lampard is sacked

A report by The Guardian states that Chelsea are likely to change their transfer stance regarding West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice.

Frank Lampard, who was sacked by Chelsea on Monday, was believed to be highly interested in the English defensive midfielder. Others at Stamford Bridge did not quite match his enthusiasm.

The former Chelsea manager was told to raise funds by selling fringe players. Nevertheless, Lampard still kept Rice on his wish list despite a £220million outlay in the summer.

It seems Lampard would have tried to land Rice at the end of this season. He was also the driving force behind the Blues’ pursuit of Rice last summer. However, that may change now.

Declan Rice saga to finally end?

Thomas Tuchel was announced as the new manager of Chelsea. This could become good news for West Ham United, as it could mean a change in the club’s stance in the pursuit of the prized asset. (h/t The Guardian)

Rice is a highly versatile player. At just 22 years of age, he has become one of West Ham United’s most important players. Moreover, he has played every single minute of their 20 Premier League games this season.

The Hammers want to fend off interest from other clubs for Rice and could quote up to £80million to scare teams away.

Chelsea do not have an urgent need for midfielders. But Rice is versatile and has shown that he is highly consistent.

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He can play as a defensive midfielder and also as a centre-back. Chelsea would no doubt be unhappy with themselves for letting him leave the club’s academy at the age of 14.