Chelsea could spring a surprise as they are plotting a January move for West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice.
According to a report by Sunday World, Chelsea might bring forward their summer transfer plan to seal a move for West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice. The 23-year-old is destined for a big move next year.
Chelsea owner Todd Boehly is aware that he might have to inject more money in the next few transfer windows to rebuild the first-team squad. The American businessman is overseeing all the transfer activities himself and will take the final call before finalising a move.
Rice has generated massive interest among the Premier League clubs. And the English midfielder further established his intention to participate in the UEFA Champions League, which the Hammers cannot offer at this moment.
“I’ve been playing consistently well for the club and I want to keep pushing. I see my friends here who are playing Champions League football, winning the trophies. You only get one career and at the end of your career you want to look back at what you’ve won and the biggest games you’ve played in.”
Rice’s comments would only cement the claim that the 23-year-old midfielder wants to accept a new challenge. And Chelsea might want to fulfil his wish. But the west London giants are quite far as long as Champions League football is concerned, although they would be hoping to breach the top four as soon as the season commences after the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
West Ham United will not be expecting an offer in January as it would further complicate their position. The Hammers are currently indulged in a survival fight, and Rice has been their focal point throughout the season.
But if West Ham receive a lucrative offer which caters to their demand, they might consider a transfer, given they also find his suitable replacement within the stipulated time. Graham Potter could reshape the Chelsea midfield as he could lose both N’Golo Kante and Jorginho next summer. And Rice could be their big-money contingency plan to avoid any further damage.
