Chelsea are reportedly favourites to sign West Ham’s Declan Rice next year.
Rice, who took charge as West Ham’s club captain this season, is regarded as one of the top midfielders in the Premier League.
The Hammers star is an all-action central midfielder that’s defensively sound and great at breaking up play. He offers superb athleticism and quality in possession, too.
Chelsea favourites to sign Rice
According to 90min, Rice would be a dream signing for Chelsea and he is top of their wanted list for 2023.
It is understood that the 23-year-old expects to leave West Ham next summer, with Chelsea “firm favourites” to win the race for his signature ahead of other potential suitors Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United.
The report adds Todd Boehly, who’s the busy co-owner at Stamford Bridge, is a huge fan of Rice.
Journalist Dean Jones reported last month that Chelsea’s hierarchy remained keen on long-term target Rice despite a change of manager.
This latest update is certainly positive news with regards to a potential move to West London.
The next step
It feels inevitable that at some stage Rice needs the glamorous move away from the London Stadium, so perhaps at the end of the season is the perfect time.
The midfield enforcer is still getting European football in West Ham colours, albeit it’s not the Champions League stage he must dream of. Also, he’s a nailed-on starter for Gareth Southgate’s England side going into the World Cup.
On paper, he could slot into any of the top Premier League sides with his individual quality.
The future of Chelsea’s midfield seems a little unclear when you consider N’Golo Kante and Jorginho are both out of contract next year, so lining up potential top replacements is a no-brainer.
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