Declan Rice has reportedly turned down a contract offer at West Ham United but could he head back to Chelsea?
Chelsea fans will be wondering what their club was thinking when they decided to release Declan Rice after seven years in the Stamford Bridge academy.
Rice has established himself as one of the most talented young players anywhere in the Premier League since joining Chelsea’s London rivals West Ham United on a free transfer. The 19-year-old was particularly impressive during a goalless draw against his former club at the London Stadium.
But with Rice’s future at West Ham in doubt, the Metro believes that Chelsea will go all out to bring their one-that-got-away back to West London.
It is well documented that Rice is out of contract in 2020 and he recently rejected a £20,000-a-week deal to commit his future to the Claret and Blues. The teenager, who can play in defence or midfield, is currently earning £3,000-a-week.
The Metro reports that Chelsea hope to take advantage by offering to double Rice’s wages, and there is a genuine possibility that West Ham could be forced to sell in order to avoid losing their prize asset on a free.
Rice could replace either Tiemoue Bakayoko or Danny Drinkwater in Chelsea’s squad, while loanee Matteo Kovacic is reportedly hopeful of securing a future at parent club Real Madrid.
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