Speaking to CaughtOffside, Ben Jacobs has been discussing Declan Rice’s future and where he could end up this summer.
The West Ham midfielder is widely expected to be leaving the London Stadium this summer, and every top club in England has been linked.
The likes of Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City are all keen, but according to Jacobs, we mustn’t rule out the chances of Rice ending up at Newcastle.
Rice could go to Newcastle
Jacobs discussed Rice’s future.
“Arsenal’s midfield priority will be Declan Rice and West Ham are resigned to losing him. David Moyes, as you’d expect, has been quick to argue if Rice leaves it should be for a British-record transfer fee. But suitors are hoping for a fee of £70-80m. This is ultimately because Rice’s contract expires in summer 2024,” Jacobs said.
“But Chelsea’s big-spending could inflate the market and thus Rice’s price. You can understand why selling clubs, especially for top-tier central midfielders, will point to Enzo Fernandez’s £107m fee and ask for something similar.
“I still think Rice will go for cheaper than that, but how much so will depend on whether West Ham get a bit of a bidding war. Chelsea also really want Rice. Manchester United and Newcastle United can’t be ruled out either, although I understand Rice’s preference is to stay in London. That won’t be a deal-breaker, but Arsenal and Chelsea can certainly use it to their advantage.”
Long term vision
If Rice wants long-term success, then perhaps he should go to Newcastle.
Make no mistake about it, the Magpies are coming, they’re the richest club in the world and they will be contenders for the title sooner rather than later.
Rice could join a team like Arsenal who are playing well right now, but as we’ve seen the Gunners can blow hot and cold.
Meanwhile, Newcastle are almost guaranteed success over the next few years due to their sheer wealth, and that may lead to players like Rice heading to St James’ Park.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
