Transfer News: Chelsea to receive boost as Declan Rice tipped to reject third contract offer
Speaking on the ‘London is Blue Podcast’, The Telegraph’s Matt Law (h/t football.london) stated that Chelsea transfer target Declan Rice would reject another contract from West Ham United.
The English midfielder has already rejected two approaches from the Hammers and wants to be made aware of any bids for him, according to Law.
“Declan Rice would reject a third contract offer from West Ham. He wants to be made aware of any bids made for him.”
The journalist then mentioned that the current situation around Rice could then force them to have a ‘serious think’ about any bid near £60million.
“West Ham would have to have a serious think about any bid that came in over £60m because of the situation.”
Rice still on Chelsea’s list
The report by Football.london goes on to mention that West Ham’s stance regarding Rice hasn’t changed as of now. The club is still not willing to let the 22-year-old defensive midfielder leave this summer.
Rice was a product of the Chelsea academy before jumping ship 8 years back. Since then, he has come through the youth ranks at West Ham and is a crucial first-team player for them now.
His impressive displays for the Hammers culminated in him being a starter for Gareth Southgate’s England national team at the 2020 UEFA European Championship. His partnership in the middle with Kalvin Phillips played a big role in their run to the final.
More Chelsea News:
- Transfer News: Thomas Tuchel still hoping to get Harry Kane at Chelsea
- Chelsea contacted over possible Eden Hazard return from Real Madrid
- Transfer News: Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham not opposed to Arsenal move
If Rice arrives at Stamford Bridge, he could add significant depth and quality in both midfield and defence. And at 22, he would also be future-proofing those areas in the squad. Now, it remains to be seen how his contract situation plays out at the London Stadium and if it can benefit Chelsea.
