Speaking recently on Off The Ball’s OTB AM podcast, Phil Egan discussed the reported interest in West Ham United defensive midfielder, Declan Rice.
Since making his debut for the club back in 2017, Rice has quickly become one of West Ham’s star players, featuring 109 times for the club in the three years since, scoring three goals and providing four assists.
The 21-year-old has also been capped seven times for England, as well as seeing his value rocket to £44.55 million.
As a result of his impressive rise, there have been rumours that Chelsea, whom Rice left to join West Ham at youth level, are interested in the midfielder this summer, with some outlets even reporting that Frank Lampard’s side had made an offer of £50 million for the player, although West Ham denied the reports, and laughed off an offer that amount for Rice.
However, Egan claimed that £50 million would be a ‘good price’ for Rice, although he expects the 21-year-old to be a West Ham player next season.
He said: “I just think of that story, £50 million would be huge money if it was West Ham and Republic of Ireland midfielder Declan Rice, but obviously he’s an England midfielder, now. And that’s one of the reasons why a lot of people felt Declan Rice decided to play for England after playing for Ireland, but not competitively.
“I think £50m is a good price for a guy that can play in midfield and central defence. If you’re selling, you’re trying to get more, maybe £60m.
“I think he’s going to be at West Ham [next season].”
TIF Thoughts…
As such, it would appear that, while Egan believes that West Ham would be looking for around £60 million for Rice, he feels the player will still be a Hammer next season, which, as a West Ham fan, must be music to your ears.
Would £60m be enough for Rice?
Yes, we could use that to improve the squad
No, I want more than that
