‘Been told…’ – Simon Phillips conveys significant Declan Rice to Chelsea update
Simon Phillips reports that Chelsea is in contact with people close to West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice ahead of a possible transfer this summer.
The captain of the Irons has entered the final 18 months of his contract at the London Stadium and faces an uncertain future as he has yet to commit to extending his stay.
Along with the Blues, Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Manchester United are also monitoring the 24-year-old who has turned down multiple new contract offers.
Graham Potter will be hoping to capitalize on this opportunity, as David Moyes has stated that the England international’s departure will set a “British transfer record.” With reports indicating that they may consider Kalvin Phillips as a replacement, Graham Potter will be hoping to take advantage of this situation.
Phillips revealed to GiveMeSport that Rice is Chelsea’s top priority this summer, with Todd Boehly already in contact with the player’s representatives about a possible deal. He said:
“Declan Rice still tops the list, as far as I’ve been told. But with Declan Rice, they’re putting down the groundwork foundations. They are speaking to people close to him letting him know they’re there and that they are going to be making a move for him in the summer.”
Jacek Kulig, a talent scout, has described Rice as a ‘controller’ and a ‘dominator’ in the midfield, and Chelsea must act swiftly to secure his services before their rivals.
The Adidas-sponsored star is currently averaging 2.3 tackles per league 90 minutes, but he is also a threat in the final third, having contributed to 23 goals during his time at the London Stadium.
The talent from Kingston upon Thames would also be extremely versatile, with the ability to operate in central midfield and at center-back, making him a valuable asset.
In addition, Rice shares the same agent as Cesar Azpilicueta, Mason Mount, Raheem Sterling, and Christian Pulisic, which could give Chelsea an advantage in the race to sign him.
‘Been told…’ – Simon Phillips conveys significant Declan Rice to Chelsea update
