Journalist Florian Plettenberg has claimed that Declan Rice is one of Chelsea’s top transfer targets this summer.
The midfielder is almost certainly going to be on the move at the end of the season, after years of speculation over where he would play for next.
The Blues have been strongly linked with a move for the West Ham United man, given his history with the academy of the club when at a young age.
There is also the well-known friendship with Mason Mount that many will have been hoping would play a role in convincing him to move to Stamford Bridge.
However, the 24-year-old’s future is not safe in West London. He is currently not close to signing a new deal with the Blues.
This has excited a number of Premier League clubs over a potential deal, with Liverpool leading the way in terms of interest.
Rice one of Chelsea’s top targets
Despite the big chance that Mount could be on the move at the end of the season, Plettenberg has claimed that Rice remains one of their top targets for the upcoming transfer window.
He said: “News on Rice: Chelsea is definitely in the race and highly interested – confirmed! He’s one of the top candidates in order to strengthen the defensive midfield.
“Contract until 2024. Therefore, good chances to sign him this summer.”
The Blues have been linked with a number of players for the position, likely to become a long-term partner for club-record signing Enzo Fernandez.
Currently, Mateo Kovacic is featuring in this role, although there are no securities regarding his future.
They have looked elsewhere in the Premier League for potential reinforcements. Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia are two of the names who have been linked with making a move to Stamford Bridge at the end of the season.