West Ham fear they ‘could be forced to sell’ Declan Rice this summer amid interest in the midfielder from both Chelsea and Manchester United.
The Hammers are preparing for a significant overhaul of their first-team squad this summer following a hugely disappointing campaign thus far, the club currently embroiled in a relegation battle having begun the season with aspirations of securing European qualification.
West Ham boss David Moyes is keen to strengthen during the summer window but is aware funds may be limited amid the financial implications of the coronavirus pandemic, with several of the club’s stars available for transfer in a bid to improve finances.
[ads2
According to the Telegraph that includes England international Rice, who has attracted interest from some of the division’s leading sides in recent months including both Chelsea and Manchester United.
West Ham are aware that the 21-year-old is comfortably their most valuable asset, and whilst Moyes would prefer to keep the youngster at the London Stadium, there is an acceptance that the money raised from his sale could be invested to significantly improve the side.
Rice – who previously spent time in the academy system at Chelsea – has hinted recently that he would be interested in a potential return to Stamford Bridge to play with his good friend Mason Mount, whilst United are also long term admirers of the defensive midfielder who is said to be valued at around £70m.
That fee looks optimistic given the current climate, though there is potential for a player-plus-cash deal with Chelsea in particular, the likes of Ross Barkley and Michy Batshuayi likely to be of interest and potentially available.
Moyes is keen to put his own stamp on the West Ham side he inherited following the failings of previous manager Manuel Pellegrini, the Chilean having been sacked following the club’s poor start to the season in December.
What is Paul Ince’s legacy? Why England’s first black captain is football’s forgotten man
See also – Appreciating the three players to score in FA and League Cup finals in the same season
