David Moyes’ West Ham United are not interested in selling England international Declan Rice and will reportedly not negotiate with Frank Lampard’s side over a possible summer move for the midfielder
The Hammers will reportedly resist any approach from the Blues for Declan Rice in the summer transfer market and they have no interest in selling their prized asset to a local London rival.
The West London side are interested in making a move for Rice, who left the club when he was 14 years old to join the West Ham, but it looks unlikely that Chelsea will be able to convince their fierce rivals over negotiating a deal for the combative midfield star.
Rice still has four years left on his contract at the London Stadium with an option to extend his deal for another year, while West Ham doesn’t need to sell their midfielder unless potential relegation changes their financial outlook.
West Ham United showed an interest in signing Ross Barkley in the January transfer market, and the 25-year-old could’ve been used as a potential makeweight for Rice to arrive at Stamford Bridge.
However, Barkley still remains committed to Chelsea and struck in a good run of form ahead of the current halt in play due to the coronavirus crisis.
Rice struck up strong friendships at Chelsea’s youth academy in Cobham during his time as a youngster coming through the ranks. The 21-year-old still retains a strong relationship with those who have risen through the ranks including Mason Mount, and the pair have been renowned as ‘best friends’ since they were eight years old.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s Manchester United were also in the hunt to sign Declan Rice amid the impressive displays shown by the Englishman. Chelsea might have some competition to sign Rice in the summer if United step up their interest in the midfielder.
