West Ham United insider @ExWHUemployee has recently aired an update regarding the future of English midfielder Declan Rice.
Throughout the summer transfer window, the Hammers youngster has been linked with a move away from the London Stadium with Chelsea reportedly keen (via The Sun).
It has been reported that the Irons value Rice at £80m, however, the Blues ‘know they are in a strong position’ regarding the transfer and will attempt to seal a reduced fee.
So, in the latest episode of The West Ham Way Podcast, @ExWHUemployee discussed the Rice transfer link and provided an update for supporters.
He said: “People have been asking me constantly about Declan Rice, whether he’s staying or going. The club want to keep hold of him, that’s the message I’ve been getting.
“They don’t want to sell him at any price, unless it’s a huge bid. What quantifies as a huge bid? I would go for £70-80m. In my opinion, that isn’t enough, but that is what I think they would consider.
“[Chelsea are] meant to be signing [Edouard] Mendy – once that deal is completed, the final piece to their jigsaw is Declan Rice.
“Now, they’re going to leave it short in terms of the [window] closing but I think if West Ham accept a bid – and it’s if West Ham accept a bid – then he’ll go.”
TIF Thoughts…
As can be seen in what the club insider had to say, Frank Lampard’s outfit will turn its attention to Rice once the services of Mendy have been secured.
He also believes that if the Hammers accept a transfer offer for the 21-year-old midfielder, then he will leave the club.
If Chelsea bid £80m for Declan Rice, would you mind if he left?
No, that's a good deal
Yes, he's worth more
Over the 2019/20 Premier League season, the Englishman was the fourth-best performer to feature for the Irons with a 7.01/10 average rating (per WhoScored).
So, it is clear to see that David Moyes would be losing a talented player if Rice did depart the London Stadium.