Break the British transfer record to sign Declan Rice. Declan Rice, who is wanted by Chelsea and Arsenal, will reportedly seek a record British transfer fee, according to West Ham United manager David Moyes. Over the past three seasons, the 24-year-old has established himself as among the world’s top defensive midfielders. He has helped the Hammers to acceptable sixth and seventh-place finishes in the 2020–21 and 2021–22 seasons since breaking into the starting lineup regularly.
The 39-cap England star is currently in the final 18 months of his contract at the London Stadium and is a constant presence in the middle of the field. He has recently come to the attention of teams like Chelsea and Arsenal as a result.
After West Ham and Newcastle United drew 1-1 on Saturday, February 4, Moyes lavished Rice with praise. He added that prospective suitors would need to shell out more money than Enzo Fernandez’s £107 million transfer cost to sign the club captain. He clarified: “Declan was a star player who demonstrated a lot of skills. He will undoubtedly be a great player and when he departs West Ham, a British transfer record.”
If Rice’s departure was unavoidable, Moyes replied when asked: “I hope not! There have been numerous discussions about it, but based on recent transfer price trends, I believe Declan will completely outperform them when the time comes.” The UEFA Euro 2020 finalist has made 221 appearances for West Ham in all competitions, recording 11 goals and 12 assists overall.
David Ornstein discussed Declan Rice’s likely future destinations in England on The Athletic Football Podcast. He stated: “Manchester United, who have been associated with Rice frequently, need to be watched carefully. In addition, as they were lacking top midfield alternatives before Casemiro’s arrival, who will be the ownership at that time, and will they still be looking to strengthen their midfield in the way that we have been led to think in recent years?”
Ornstein went on to say that Chelsea and Arsenal are the front-runners: “The City of Manchester – They don’t seem to be particularly adamant about Rice. But if Ilkay Gundogan departs, it is obvious that a need exists. Simply said, it’s the impression you have, which is subject to change. Given the current situation, Rice might be torn between Arsenal and Chelsea. The Jorginho signing indicates that the Premier League leaders will be prioritizing a high-profile, high-level number six moving forward.” Between 2006 and 2014, Rice attended Chelsea’s academy for eight years. This season, it was rumored that Rice will sign a winter transfer to Arsenal.
This space is your source for the latest football news, rumors, and updates on your favorite players and teams.