In a recent tweet, Sky Sports journalist Angelo Mangiante mentioned that Chelsea have identified West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice as a main target for the summer transfer window. It is understood that the Blues are eyeing a move for the England international as Thomas Tuchel looks to strengthen his midfield at the end of this campaign.
⚽ Defense: Koundé
⚽ Midfield: Declan Rice.
⚽ Attack: Ousman Dembélé (as free agent).
These are Chelsea's three main summer goals. Ahead of everyone in the race. @SkySport #transfers— Angelo Mangiante (@angelomangiante) February 2, 2022
Rice’s Impressive Run Of Form At The English Capital This Season
Rice is having a sensational campaign at the London Stadium as he has been responsible for producing several influential displays at the heart of David Moyes’ midfield. The London-born talent has registered three goals and four assists in 28 matches for the Hammers this season on all fronts.
The English playmaker has been a consistent performer at both ends of the field based on his average of 2.3 tackles, 1.8 interceptions, 1.3 clearances, 0.8 shots, 0.8 key passes and 1.6 dribbles per 90 minutes in Premier League football. He has even been excellent when distributing possession from midfield after making 90.7% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via whoscored).
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What Will Rice Bring To Chelsea?
Rice is a tough-tackling midfielder who can make some clever runs with the ball from midfield. He has got the vision to play a decisive pass in the opponent’s half and doesn’t shy away from having a strike at goal.
More importantly, the 27-time England international can time his challenges well to secure the ball back at the centre of the park. He can even offer decent protection for his teammates at the back and usually clears the danger when the opposition are on the front foot.
A complete midfielder of Rice’s caliber will no doubt be an excellent signing for the Blues as he will enhance the quality of Chelsea‘s first-team considerably in the summer.
We can expect the West Ham star to bring a lot of bite and steel to Tuchel‘s midfield. Furthermore, Rice could even help the West London club bridge the gap to Manchester City and Liverpool at the top of English football in the coming seasons. Thus, the Blues should think about engineering a move to bring their former youth player back to Stamford Bridge at the end of this campaign.
