West Ham United: Chelsea contract decision could impact pursuit of Declan Rice
West Ham United’s desire to keep Declan Rice at the London Stadium is there for all to see and the next couple of months could be vital for the Hammers.
Recent developments have not been good for West Ham with Chelsea still viewing the midfielder as one of their top targets (90min, 4 October). It has also been suggested by the Daily Star’s Paul Brown (GiveMeSport, 17 October) that the 23-year-old won’t be signing a contract any time soon.
Chelsea do look like the most likely candidate for Rice’s services should the club opt to cash in on their prized asset to avoid losing him below his current market value. There’s a key decision that must be made at Stamford Bridge which could have a bearing on any future move for the England international.
90min report (18 October) the club are evaluating the future of Jorginho and N’Golo Kante with both players out of contract at Stamford Bridge in the summer of 2023. It’s understood Chelsea are willing to discuss new terms with the pair, but there is division in West London over whether that’s the best decision.
The duo are allowed to talk to other overseas clubs in January and if they were allowed to exit, Chelsea would have a free wage bill to ramp up their move for Rice.
Importantly, it’s believed Graham Potter is happy for both players to depart Stamford Bridge and this could well be a big worry for West Ham fans when it comes to their star man’s future.
If they do depart Stamford Bridge it would not be a shock to see Potter look to bring the 23-year-old across London and make him a significant part of his plans moving forward.
Let’s hope Chelsea agree on deals with their midfield duo and deem a move for Rice, not of primary importance in the upcoming transfer windows.