Fans bombard Fabrizio Romano about West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice
Fabrizio Romano has suggested on Caught Offside that fans keep asking him about the situation of West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice along with Jude Bellingham’s scenario.
Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester City and Real Madrid are all vying for Bellingham’s signature, and only one can get him. It means Rice could be a big option for the other clubs.
West Ham are adamant they want around £130million for their star midfielder and the club feel they are protected by his current contract situation.
“I get asked a lot about Jude Bellingham at the moment, but another big-name midfielder fans seem to want to know about is Declan Rice,” wrote Romano for Caught Offside.
“After all, if Man City, Liverpool, Chelsea and Real Madrid are all chasing Bellingham, only one of them can get him and the rest will need an alternative.
“Still, for Declan Rice, we have to consider and respect West Ham; they always wanted almost €150m (£130m) for the midfielder and they feel protected by his current contract situation.”
Protected
It is well documented that Rice has rejected a few contract extension offers from the club, but he has shown full commitment on the pitch.
Rice is the skipper at the club, and he values the bond with the West Ham fans.
He wants to play in the Champions League, and win trophies, and at some point, the Hammers may have to say goodbye to their star player.
If West Ham manage to break into the top four or top six, Rice probably could be persuaded to stay put. However, the Hammers have made a poor start this season, and it will require a massive improvement on their part to break into the top six.
West Ham United have set a high price tag on Rice, based on his phenomenal performances over a period of time, and any potential club will have to meet that amount.
Rice has been outstanding this season as well in midfield, but the Hammers are really finding it hard to pick up wins in the Premier League at the moment consistently.