Chelsea maintain a strong interest in West Ham midfielder Declan Rice, according to journalist Dean Jones.

The former Eurosport columnist claims that the sacking of Thomas Tuchel won’t impact the Blues’ pursuit of the England international:

“Thomas Tuchel’s departure won’t really affect Chelsea’s vision of signing Declan Rice. There are still people that remain within the club that are set on going for Declan Rice when the time arrives.”

Rice is believed to be valued at around £150m by the Hammers, although that figure will likely decrease if the player continues to reject offers to extend his contract.

The 23-year-old’s current deal is set to expire in 2024, although there is an option to keep him for another year on top of that, which does allow West Ham to hold their ground on their valuation for now.

Manchester United and Manchester City have also been credited with an interest in Rice previously, although their purchases of Casemiro and Kalvin Phillips in the summer transfer window may lead them to withdraw from the race.

Chelsea’s midfield will need to be strengthened, especially if N’Golo Kante decides against signing a new contract with the club, so Rice appears to be one of the main options being considered.