Transfer News: 23-year-old midfielder still top of Chelsea’s wishlist despite managerial change

Transfer News: Chelsea are still interested in West Ham United’s Declan Rice

Chelsea are still interested in West Ham United and England international midfielder Declan Rice. This is according to 90min (h/t Express).

Rice was part of the Blues academy when he was a teenager but was released by the club. He joined The Hammers academy in 2013 and has risen through their ranks to establish himself as a regular at the east London club.

The west London club were interested in the 23-year-old during the summer transfer window. Todd Boehly, the co-owner of Chelsea even had a conversation with their London neighbours for a deal, but he was told that the midfielder is not for sale.

But this has not put off the Blues and the England international is at the top of the club’s wishlist for 2023. A move for him either in January or next summer would make sense.

N’Golo Kante sees his current contract expire next summer. One of the best holding midfielders in the modern game, the player has won virtually every major trophy with the club.

However, the past couple of seasons have seen the former Leicester City man getting injured quite often. Plus, Metro have suggested that the 31-year-old could leave the Blues next summer on a free transfer.

Rice could serve as a perfect replacement for the French World Cup winner. The 23-year-old is very experienced for his age and is a proven Premier League player. He is also capable of playing as a centre-back whenever required and the Blues could do with such a versatile player in their squad.

More Chelsea News:

• Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang hopes he can put an end to the myth of the No. 9 curse at Chelsea
• Graham Potter hopes Wolves’ Diego Costa receives positive reception on Chelsea return
• Chelsea could make a move for Cristiano Ronaldo either in January or next summer

The midfielder sees his current contract expire in 2024 (transfermarkt). West Ham could be reluctant to sell their star player but could come to the table if the Blues put their hands deep into their pocket. It remains to be seen if Chelsea make a move for the midfielder in the coming months.