Reports have claimed that Mauricio Pochettino is keen for Chelsea to sign Declan Rice from West Ham this summer.
According to 90min, the prospective new manager confirmed his personal interest in the signing when it was pitched to him during talks with the club.
It is expected that Pochettino is announced at some time this week as the new Chelsea manager, after reports began to surface of a deal being agreed between both parties.
It has been a lengthy process since Graham Potter was sacked over a month ago, with the club making it clear from an early stage that they were looking for someone to lead them into the future starting this summer.
This has seen Frank Lampard offered the chance to take over on a temporary basis for the remainder of the season, however results have not in any way suggested he should be a contender for the job in the long run.
Pochettino wants Rice
With games against three of the top four to close out the season, the club legend may be taking the fall for the remainder of the campaign.
Reports have already indicated some of the players that Pochettino is looking to build his squad around next season at Stamford Bridge.
These have largely revolved around Mason Mount, who the Argentine is really hopeful the club can convince to stay despite him reportedly wanting out.
Now, it has been claimed that the former Tottenham boss is keen for the Blues to bring in Rice, although they will be under plenty of pressure due to the competition around his signature this summer.
It has already been claimed that a deal is likely to cost around £100m.
He has been a long term target for the club, and a midfielder is certainly on the agenda in West London as they look to address their weaknesses from this season.