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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…
West Ham will demand at least £100m to sell Declan Rice this summer because they will use Jude Bellingham’s transfer as a marker, according to Frank McAvennie.
The Hammers skipper is expected to leave the club after the Europa Conference League final against Fiorentina, with the player doing a solo lap of honour at the London Stadium after the final home game of the season on Sunday (21 May).
But while Arsenal are said to be preparing an offer worth around £90m for Rice, McAvennie believes owner David Sullivan will be watching the Bellingham saga from afar to use the price in that deal as a marker for Rice.
“They’ll get £100m because if Bellingham is going to Real Madrid for £120m then there’s your marker, that’s what David Sullivan will say,” he told West Ham Zone.
“So whatever Bellingham goes for, that’s their marker. I think it’ll be £100m+.
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“Do I think he’s worth it? No. Do I think anyone is worth it? No. But it’s the way forward and in today’s football he’s worth that.
“As long as we spend it wisely. I wouldn’t want us to just sell Declan and then not give him any money, whoever the manager is.”
Bayern Munich, Chelsea and Manchester United are also said to be interested in signing the 24-year-old although West Ham’s asking price is said to be prohibitive right now.
Rice’s current contract in east London expires in 2024, but the club have the option to extend it by a further year meaning he essentially still has two years remaining on the deal.
Sky Sports have reported that the club and player have a “gentlemans agreement” that he can leave for £120m to a Champions League club, although other reports suggest that a deal can be done for less.