Frank McAvennie reacts as Rio Ferdinand suggests Newcastle move for West Ham star Declan Rice

We’re delighted to welcome former West Ham United striker Frank McAvennie as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at the London Stadium…

Frank McAvennie suggests it is premature to link the likes of West Ham star Declan Rice to Newcastle United after the Magpies’ recent takeover.

The North-East outfit were acquired by affluent investors last week and are now understood to have the wealthiest backing in world football.

Speaking on his YouTube channel Vibe with Five after the takeover was confirmed, former West Ham Ferdinand, capped 81 times by England during an illustrious playing career, said: “Raheem Sterling’s not playing regularly, I’d go ask him the question [of signing for Newcastle]. I’d go and ask Declan Rice, ‘What’s going on?’

West Ham

“Them two would be the first two on my list, and I’d go all out to go and get them.”

However, while acknowledging Newcastle’s newfound power in football as a result of their financial muscle, ex-Irons hero McAvennie is doubtful that Rice, 22, could be tempted to leave the London Stadium for St James Park, though he suggests clubs are now vulnerable to the recently-flush Magpies.

“Listen, they’ve got all this money now, they could sign anyone,” McAvennie told West Ham Zone.

West Ham

“Whether someone would want to go there…I think Declan is quite happy to stay there for another year.

“It’s going to take a few years for Newcastle to get to the stage [of signing players like Rice].”

In other West Ham news, Gary Lineker has issued an ‘exciting’ claim on this Irons player after a development this week.

Be sure to follow West Ham Zone on Facebook and Twitter for 24/7 updates on the Hammers and more exclusive interviews with Frank McAvennie.