West Ham need to ensure signing Dawson would not mean losing Rice

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West Ham United are supposedly pushing for a deal to sign West Brom defender Craig Dawson, but they should really be concentrating on keeping Declan Rice.

As reported by the Daily Mail, West Ham United have tabled an offer of £12 million for defender Craig Dawson, who is interesting several clubs following the Baggies’ relegation to the Championship.

Dawson made 28 Premier League appearances last season and scored two goals. He played most of his games at right-back, with Ahmed Hegazi and Jonny Evans occupying the central positions.

The Mail say West Brom have slapped a £20 million asking price on the defender’s head, which would be a fantastic deal for Albion if they can find a side willing to pay.

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West Ham are trying to get the 28-year-old much cheaper, but the question is should they be in for him at all when they already have young Declan Rice at their disposal?

Rice is a highly promising centre-half capable of playing as a holding midfielder as well, and he burst on to the scene last term with some assured performances alongside Angelo Ogbonna and Winston Reid.

The Sun reports that Rice is currently in a contract stand off with West Ham, and news of a bid for Dawson is not going to help matters if they want him to commit to a better contract.

The Republic of Ireland international supposedly harbours concerns about his playing time ahead of next season, especially since the club recently signed Issa Diop to further increase competition for places.

Dawson might prove to be a good squad player, but Manuel Pellegrini should ensure that Rice’s chances of staying at the London Stadium are not worsened by doing the deal.