According to Fabrizio Romano, Declan Rice has rejected a third contract offer from West Ham, as he targets a move away from the London Stadium.
What’s the story?
Well, just eight days after kissing the West Ham badge in Lyon, the 23-year-old has once again expressed a desire to leave east London.
Rice is not expected to sign a new contract, with his current terms set to expire in June 2024.
Of course, that seems like ages away, but if the 23-year-old stands firm on his intention not to put pen to paper, then his value is going to decrease with each passing month from now on.
Romano adds that West Ham and David Moyes view Rice as untouchable, and do not want to sell the England international whatsoever.
However, after the West Ham No.41 rejected a third contract offer, they may now have no choice but to cash in.
West Ham could benefit from Declan Rice exit
Understandably, this news will be extremely painful for West Ham fans to read.
However, it could actually be beneficial for the Hammers.
Moyes has already slapped a £150m price tag on Rice, which we wouldn’t be surprised to see a side like Manchester City or Paris Saint-Germain pay.
As quoted by the Evening Standard, the 58-year-old said: “£150 million just now would be the minimum, but he is not for sale. What I do know is that it means there are only certain clubs that could even consider it.”
Even if West Ham receive a fee in the region of £100m – £120m, that money can be put towards a revamp of the Irons.
A new striker could arrive, as could a standout left-back, goalkeeper and centre-back.
To put it simply, selling Rice could actually make West Ham a better side overall, if the money is spent wisely.
Keep an eye on this saga, as anything could happen this summer.
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