Hope for Chelsea as 22-year-old star who was wanted by Lampard is open to an exit

Declan Rice is one of the better midfielders in the English Premier League. (imago Images)

Transfer News: Chelsea target Declan Rice open to West Ham exit

According to transfer news from Express, Chelsea target Declan Rice is said to be open to an exit from West Ham. Rice was previously not keen on doing so but it seems as the right offer could turn his head towards Chelsea.

Chelsea know Declan Rice from his academy days. However, he chose to leave for West Ham in order to continue his development. During his spell with the Hammers, he has quietly gone about establishing himself as one of the most reliable defensive midfielders in the league and for England as well.

Declan Rice and Mason Mount were together at Chelsea during the academy days

The 22-year-old was one of the names Frank Lampard wanted at Chelsea during his time at Stamford Bridge. Since the arrival of Tuchel though, interest in the West Ham midfielder cooled down a bit. Tuchel, however, has previously claimed that he would indeed like to sign Rice.

It seems newer developments have taken place in this whole saga. Rice was understood to be keen on staying back at West Ham. However, Rice is now said to be more open to leaving the Hammers and the right offer could push him towards that.

LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 19: Declan Rice of West Ham United takes a shot during the Premier League match between West Ham United and West Bromwich Albion at London Stadium on January 19, 2021 in London, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

Rice is now open to an exit

Dean Jones of Eurosport explained the situation after being in contact with people close to the player.

“People who work for Declan Rice have said in the past to the likes of Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea that he’s willing to leave London if the right offer is there, the right terms, the right project. He’s got his eyes open, with regards to the future.
“I still think, personally, that Chelsea is the most likely place Declan Rice ends up. Because of the amount of salary he wants, because of the signing on fee he’d take and because of the price West Ham are going to want it’s a huge package to sign Declan Rice.”

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It would be wise to freshen up the midfield before the new season and add some much-need depth and quality to it. At just 22 years of age, Rice can be a huge long-term acquisition for Chelsea. Alongside Kante, he can flourish and Chelsea will benefit as well.

3 years ago

Sourav Ghosh

Full-time football fan, half-time football writer.