Chelsea keeping close tabs with West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice. Chelsea have been long-term admirers of the 22-year-old midfielder, although West Ham United are still demanding upwards of £80m for their footballer.
Last summer, Chelsea’s coach Frank Lampard pushed the Blues to bring Rice to Stamford Bridge. The Blues, having already spent heavily on new players such as Werner, Havertz and Mendy, postponed their interest in Declan by another year.
Despite a change in the managerial hot seat, the Blues stay very much interested in England international. However, his value has been appreciated in that period, especially after playing an influential role in England’s UEFA Euro 2020 campaign.
The English midfielder was a mainstay in the Three Lions’ midfield with Kalvin Philips, which is why West Ham United are demanding top value. The Hammers are looking for nearly £80m for Declan, knowing well that the interested sides can have such an outlay.
Apart from the Blues, Man United have been serious contenders until the Red Devils decided to turn their attention towards Stade Rennais midfielder Eduardo Camavinga, a cheaper option to Declan.
Even Blues had options in mind but are now keen to bring Declan to Chelsea. The asking price might be a stumbling block for Chelsea, who are also chasing Erling Haaland.
Alternatively, if the Blues fail in the Norwegian striker’s pursuit, they are ready to shell out £50m on Robert Lewandowski. However, Chelsea could take advantage of the Hammers’ interest in Tammy Abraham and include him in the agreement to reduce the asking price.
West Ham United need a new centre-forward in this window and are aware of Tammy’s availability after the Blues deemed him surplus to their requirements, valuing Abraham at £40m.
The Hammers are reportedly open to taking Tammy as part of the Declan Rice deal alongside a huge chunk of cash. However, the Hammers face a tough contest for Abraham.
Arsenal are in the battle for Tammy, and with the striker himself being an Arsenal’s supporter, things might get complicated for West Ham United.
Arsenal are understood to be set to submit a formal offer soon, and David Moyes has a task at hand to convince Tammy of his West Ham United project. Declan, on the other hand, is destined to leave West Ham United for pastures anew.
The Blues might be a solid option, and the agreement will undoubtedly depend on both teams agreeing on a reasonable fee.
