Real Madrid have reportedly identified West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice as an alternative for Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham.
According to Defensa Central, Real Madrid have identified West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice as an alternative if they fail to complete a move for Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham in next summer’s transfer window. The England international is valued at €80 million by West Ham United.
Los Blancos have already added Aurelien Tchouameni to their midfield unit this season and also have Eduardo Camavinga in their ranks. Real Madrid have now added Bellingham to their transfer wishlist, albeit for next summer’s transfer window. But signing the English international won’t be as straightforward.
The 18-year-old England international moved to the Westfalenstadion in 2020 from Birmingham City and has since made 89 appearances for them. Bellingham has played with much more maturity than is expected of a teenager. He is naturally attracting interest from Premier League clubs, including Liverpool and Manchester United, in addition to La Liga champions Real Madrid.
Bellingham, with age on his side, will provide a long-term solution to midfield requirements of interested clubs. But Liverpool, in particular, are confident of getting the deal through, although they are only expected to make a move next summer.
Declan Rice, meanwhile, has been linked with a return to Chelsea, and Manchester United have also shown interest in the England international. But West Ham have so far managed to hold on to Rice, with reports claiming that he will only be allowed to leave next season when he will have just a year remaining on his contract.
The 23-year-old is also now Real Madrid’s plan B if they fail to land Bellingham. However, Rice is much more defensive than his England teammate, and Real Madrid already have that department covered with Tchouameni’s arrival. The West Ham star will cost around €80 million as per the report.
The reigning La Liga and UEFA Champions League title holders will thus try their best to sign Bellingham before turning their attention to Rice. Bellingham will present a more attacking outlet. And Real Madrid are looking at him to replace Dani Ceballos in the squad.
