TalkSPORT presenter Simon Jordan has claimed that Chelsea are the likeliest suitors for Declan Rice, as they would pay West Ham’s high asking price.
What’s the latest on Declan Rice?
The West Ham United captain looks almost certain to leave the club this summer, after expressing his desire to play in the Champions League, and Rice is reportedly Arsenal’s top target.
Chelsea have also been linked, and West Ham have set a price tag of over £100m.
However, Jordan criticised Rice, stating on TalkSPORT that the England international is “not a £100m footballer,” and went on to claim that Chelsea owner Todd Boehly would be likely to sign the midfielder given his heavy spending so far.
“Todd Boehly will come in and buy him for £120m because he’s not really that much interested in valuations,” he stated.
“He’s interested in what he’s building the football club towards, and if they believe that he’s the missing part of a jigsaw at Chelsea, that’s he’s going to be the anchor that they can build around, then they’ll pay that money for him.”
Could Rice solve Chelsea’s problems?
Chelsea are in a crisis on the pitch despite record levels of spending, with just two wins in their last 15 games in all competitions, as Graham Potter finds himself under increasing pressure.
They spent a British record fee on Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernandez, whilst also selling Jorginho, and they have not seen an improvement in fortunes yet.
Bringing Rice to Stamford Bridge could mean he plays alongside Fernandez to form what would be a midfield packed full of tenacity and quality.
Although he is a more defence-minded midfielder, Rice could allow Fernandez to push forward more, and the 21-year-old ranked highly for assists, shot-creating actions and shots during his time at Benfica as per FBref.
If Chelsea do splash out on the Englishman, they will need to see an instant improvement next season to justify the levels of investment in the team, but the West Ham star could help revive a team that is completely lacking in confidence.