Liverpool are now battling Chelsea to sign Declan Rice from Premier League rivals West Ham, as Jürgen Klopp aims to strengthen his midfield.
Liverpool & Chelsea fighting for Declan Rice
Well, the above is according to Simon Phillips, who believe the Reds have done plenty of homework on the England international as they look to pull off a midfield overhaul in 2023.
Klopp has been forced to rotate his midfield regularly this season with the likes of Thiago and Jordan Henderson suffering niggling injuries, while Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Naby Keita are rarely available.
As a result, Liverpool have identified Rice as a target, due to his consistently brilliant displays for West Ham.
Phillips believes Liverpool have already done plenty of groundwork over a deal to bring the £62,000-a-week man to Anfield, which presumably involves sounding out his representatives to gauge his availability.
Rice has made 18 appearances in all competitions for West Ham so far this season, scoring one goal while also providing two assists as he takes over the captaincy from Mark Noble.
The 23-year-old is also set to play a huge role for England at the World Cup in Qatar later this month.
Liverpool & Chelsea face huge Declan Rice fee
In our view, it will require a new British transfer record for West Ham to sell Rice, exceeding the £100m Manchester City spent on Jack Grealish in 2021.
David Moyes has previously slapped a £150m price tag on the West Ham No.41’s head, and if he goes on to shine at the World Cup, that sum will probably rise closer to £200m.
The only way Liverpool or Chelsea can sign Rice without obliterating their finances would be to attempt a verbal agreement with him, as he will have just 12 months remaining on his contract at the end of the season.
By that point, if it becomes apparent Rice’s head has been turned, West Ham may budge and sell their captain for less than £150m, in fear of losing him for nothing in 2024.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
