Ally McCoist backs ‘phenomenal’ Declan Rice exit from West Ham United after Liverpool sighting
Ally McCoist feels Liverpool’s midfield is currently not at the level required and has suggested Declan Rice would be a “phenomenal” addition for them should he leave West Ham.
The Hammers have always been dismissive when it comes to Rice leaving the London Stadium with the club looking for around £130million for the England midfielder (Fabrizio Romano Caught Offside, 8 November).
McCoist believes a midfield of Rice and Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham would be an exciting proposition for any of Europe’s biggest clubs.
“I like Harvey Elliot as a player, I think he’s a good player, but is he strong enough right now to be starting in that Liverpool midfield, I am not so sure,” McCoist said (talkSPORT, 10 November)
“If somebody could get the two of them, you know Bellingham and Rice then that’s phenomenal. I was up in Liverpool for the West Ham game when they won 1-0 and I am telling you Declan Rice was superb.”
Time is ticking
It does feel as if the time is ticking on Rice’s career at the London Stadium, with the 23-year-old far too good not to be playing Champions League football. He’s the first name on the team sheet for club and country and with his contract edging getting shorter by the day, speculation will begin to grow when it comes to his future.
There would’ve been hope from many at West Ham for the club to be competing nearer the top six than they currently are. Lucas Paqueta and Gianluca Scamacca were signed to take the club closer to the Champions League places, but it’s not paid off.
His current deal comes to a close in 2024, with the club holding a one-year extension. It appears Rice won’t be signing a new deal, so this summer could well be the time to see the Irons cash in on their most valuable asset.
If a bid of over £100million comes in for Rice in the next two transfer windows then it could really see the club’s resolve seriously tested.