Liverpool are keen to sign West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice, according to 90 Minutes.
Rice’s price-tag is apparently set at £80 million at the moment, but that could drop by £30 million in the summer, with West Ham prepared to cash in on their prized asset.
Liverpool feel that Rice could be the answer to their problems in midfield, which gives them an edge in the race.
Liverpool are said to be competing with Manchester United, Chelsea and Manchester City for his signature.
Chelsea and City want to convert Rice to become a central defender, but he wants to stay in midfield – and that apparently could give Liverpool an advantage.
If Rice, who Matt Upson described as ‘absolutely brilliant’ (the Athletic), does join Liverpool as a defensive midfielder, then that could see Fabinho kept as a permanent choice in central defence.
Rice would be making a step up by moving to Liverpool, but he could still be an appealing addition.
The England international looks one of the most solid midfield anchors in the Premier League, and Jamie Carragher told Sky just how underrated he thinks he is last year.
And, at the age of 22, he could be a long-term option for Liverpool in their midfield ranks, which look as if they need a freshen up.
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