West Ham United went into the game against Aston Villa yesterday knowing that they were safe. The Irons secured Premier League safety last week but that didn’t stop David Moyes from naming a strong team.
The Hammers drew 1-1 in what was proved to be a meaningless game for them. West Ham now need to plan ahead for next season and the biggest headache for them is regarding Declan Rice’s future.
The young midfielder was named as the Hammer of the year for his fantastic performances this season. Rice is viewed by many as a future skipper at West Ham but that will only happen if the club manage to keep hold of him.
The Times claimed last week that Chelsea were willing to offer Ross Barkley and Michy Batshuayi in exchange for Rice and it won’t be a surprise to see a few other clubs come in for him as well.
Moyes was asked about all the attention Rice was getting ahead of the summer transfer window and the West Ham boss claimed that he deserved the spotlight, but also revealed that he isn’t going anywhere unless they receive a mammoth offer.
He said: “Rightly so, rightly so Declan should have attention because he is such a good player. But, he’s not going anywhere unless you get one of those steel vans that have the cash in it? You better bring one of them.” (Football London)
Rice is destined to join a bigger club
West Ham fans have to admit that Rice will move on for big money sooner or later. The England international is destined for bigger things but he might have to stay at the London Stadium for another year.
The current financial climate will make it difficult for almost all clubs to spend big money this summer. Rice will be someone who will cost a lot of money which might help West Ham to keep hold of him until the end of next term.
However, it will not be a surprise to see him join one of the big boys next summer, especially if he has another Premier League season as good as this one.
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