West Ham United insider ExWHUemployee has claimed that Hammers captain Declan Rice ‘would be tempted by offers’ to leave the London Stadium.
Over the past few seasons, Rice has established himself as a key member for his club team as well as at international level for England.
His fine performances have seen him linked with a possible big-money move away from the east London side, even though manager David Moyes recently claimed that the chance to sign his star player for a ‘bargain’ fee of £100m has now passed.
While discussing the chances of the player leaving on The West Ham Way podcast, ExWHUemployee claimed that a move to Chelsea would be the most tempting option for Rice, though he doesn’t believe they will be willing to spend the money to sign him.
He explained himself, saying: “The thing is, though, like realistically, I mean, I know Declan would be tempted by offers, but Chelsea at the moment, are they going to pay that much fee of money for him? I don’t know.
“But they’re probably the club that would most tempt him, I would imagine. Manchester City, possibly. Manchester United, possibly.”
TIF Thoughts on Declan Rice and West Ham…
Of course, Rice actually came through the Chelsea academy before being released as a teenager back in 2013. Perhaps his links to that club would be a strong enough reason for the midfielder to want to make a return – after all, he has a longtime friendship with current Blues star Mason Mount.
Even so, having been given his real chance by West Ham and being the club captain, it’s easy to believe Rice may have a strong sense of loyalty towards the Hammers.
Would Declan Rice leave West Ham this January?
Yes
No
His willingness to stay with the club will no doubt be helped by the fact that his team are playing so well at the moment. Indeed, the impressive 4-1 victory over Aston Villa pushed them into fourth spot in the league.
It’s probably for these reasons that ExWHUemployee claims Chelsea are a more likely destination for Rice – if he is to leave – than either Manchester club.
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