Declan Rice - An update

Chelsea and Rice have unfinished business

Of course, everything we report right now feels rather insignificant in the grand scheme of things in the face of the European Super League news.

As well as that, if this proposal does go ahead, we have no idea what it will mean for potential transfer moves, Champions League qualification, etc etc.

However, until this damn thing is confirmed, I am running on the basis that it is not happening and we will report as normal for now.

So on that subject, let’s have a bit of transfer news to take our minds of the nonsense.

I’ve been told by one of my best sources, that Chelsea still hold an interest in signing Declan Rice, despite whispers they have lost interest.

Yes it was Frank Lampard who initially drove this interest, but Chelsea are still considering Rice as a target this summer despite Lampard now not being there.

The price has always been an issue, and West Ham always put Chelsea off with their quoted fee for Rice upon enquiry.

However, if The Hammers miss out on Champions League football, their financial situation could force them to sell.

West Ham are also interested in Tammy Abraham and Ross Barkley from Chelsea, so there is always a chance that some sort of swap deal could be put together, especially taking into account the financial pressure the pandemic is putting on clubs right now.

But we will have to wait and see if Chelsea do make a move for Rice, or whether Thomas Tuchel has his own preferred to target for that position.

As always, a lot will depend on whether Chelsea can/or want to sell any of their current squad.

Written By Simon Phillips (@siphillipssport)