Chelsea FC owner Roman Abramovich, the Russian billionaire, has reportedly given his backing to Frank Lampard to conclude a transfer deal for Declan Rice in the ongoing transfer window. Abramovich is eager to see his side compete for Premier League glory next season after a number of years of sub-par performances in the league campaign.
The West Ham United midfielder remains a key target for the Blues heading into the commencement of the 2020-21 Premier League season. However, the Hammers have so far shown their reluctance in letting go of their star player to their city rivals.
Lampard considers the 21-year old Rice to be an ideal center-back for the Stamford Bridge outfit. Despite Rice being a natural holding midfielder, the Blues coach wants to reposition him into a central defender. The west London club are in a dire need of a new option at center-back after their horrid defensive showings last season.
With the Hammers boss David Moyes being insistent on keeping Rice at the London Stadium for the coming years, it is understood that the Scotsman would allow the player to exit the club if Chelsea FC table an offer in the region of £70 million.
Abramovich, meanwhile, is believed to have given the green light to his side pursuing the 21-year old’s signing ahead of the next season. The Russian believes that Lampard’s side will be immensely bolstered by the arrival of the English midfielder.
