Florian Plettenberg reveals Thomas Tuchel is intrigued by Chelsea transfer target Declan Rice. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images)
According to Italian Journalist Fabrizio Romano (h/t Express), Chelsea have been handed a boost in their pursuit of English midfielder Declan Rice after he has rejected the latest renewal offer made by the Hammers.
Rice has been one of the best players in the division in his position over the past few years. The 23-year-old is one of the best holding midfielders in the country and has formed arguably the best defensive-midfield duo along with Thomas Soucek over the past seasons.
Having played 43 matches for the Hammers this season, the English midfielder has managed to score five goals and provide four assists in this period. Stats do not reflect the Englishman’s importance to David Moyes’ side, however, with Rice providing much more to the team in general.
Rice’s contract with West Ham is set to expire in 2024. While the player’s future at the club is secure for the immediate future, the Hammers cannot afford to let the Englishman run down his contract. This will only weaken their hand when it comes to negotiations.
Chelsea have been long term suitors for the talented midfielder and want to bring him to Stamford Bridge. Rice is also said to be keen on a move away from West Ham and with him rejecting the latest contract offer made by the Hammers, this could turn out to be the perfect match.
A former Blues youth player, despite the fact that we did not keep him back then, the emotional connection with the club is expected to tip Declan Rice in favour of joining Stamford Bridge.
Just 23 years old, he is already one of the best in the world when it comes to defensive midfield and can even deputise at centre-back when required. Such pedigree and versatility in one player is very hard to find.
Chelsea have a very well stocked midfield with quality players like N’golo Kante, Jorginho and Mateo Kovacic. However, the former two are not getting any younger in terms of age and won’t be around forever. Seeking quality replacements for both these players is a necessity for Chelsea and Jorginho just fits the bill.
However, they will not be without competition. If a player of this quality is available on the market, many teams will be waiting to jump on that opportunity as such quality does not come around often. Being English, many Premier League clubs would want to sign the midfielder but Chelsea would like to believe they have an edge.
What’s certain is the fact that Declan Rice has absolutely no intentions to stick around at West Ham beyond his current contract. Whether he makes a move this summer, next summer or on a free all depends on how much price the Hammers demand for their star player.
At the right price and under the right circumstances, Rice is a no-brainer for Chelsea. The Blues must pounce on the opportunity when it presents itself and bring our former youth player back home.
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