Chelsea will make a move for West Ham midfielder Declan Rice before the transfer window closes, and the player is interested in moving to Stamford Bridge, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The Italian journalist was speaking on The Byline podcast when he confirmed the Blues’ intention to make a bid for the England international. Supporters on Twitter are, however, more sceptical over whether the London club will go all out to sign the 21-year-old:
If he wants to join Chelsea, he should hand in transfer request. Or wait until Jan or next summer. Sooner or later he’ll be a blue ?
— Madiba (@Kuunta_) September 16, 2020
We don't need Rice ffs
— George (@OnlyGodShields) September 16, 2020
"Player wants to join Chelsea" ?
— Skeppan (@skeppan00) September 16, 2020
Time to give up, no club in their right senses will pay even 50million for Rice, Fabrizio is just giving his opinion
— A Black-Blue (@Rickkynelly) September 16, 2020
It’s not happening this window
— Emilio (@CFCesf) September 16, 2020
Jorginho>Rice
— Zoro_3 (@NugoloKonte) September 16, 2020
No need for Rice we’re full man.
— Son of Man (@makanachin) September 16, 2020
Let's wait for them relegate and get cheap next season
— Oakkar Zaw (@ZawKaroak) September 16, 2020
I would much rather have Rice than anybody. The reason being, he wants to be a Chelsea player. I am sure he will give his all on the pitch too. If Lampard wants him, then make him the priority.
— MAlexander ?? (@Alexander8189M) September 16, 2020
With an asking price between £75m and £80m, it’s hard to see Chelsea lowering West Ham’s valuation to a point where it would be a realistic figure to spend on Rice.
The Hammers board are under huge pressure from their own fans to keep hold of the midfielder as they have already taken heat for selling Grady Diangana to West Brom, and it will take a significant offer for them to consider letting go of their prized asset.