In a recent report from Football.London, it was mentioned that West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice could make an exit from East London as Chelsea show significant interest. It was also stated that Graham Potter feels that there’s a real chance for the Blues to acquire Rice next summer as he’ll enter the final year of his contract with the Hammers.
Rice’s Run Of Form With West Ham United
Declan Rice had a slow start to the 2022/23 campaign but has returned to form after producing some dominant displays in the central areas of the field recently. He has managed to find the back of the net on one occasion and create two assists over 12 appearances so far this season.
The Thames-born sensation has performed exceptionally since his debut establishing himself as a regular feature under David Moyes and becoming the captain. Even in the current campaign, he has been reliable in the holding midfield positions after averaging 2.6 tackles, 1.7 interceptions, 1.4 clearances, and 1.3 key passes per game in the Premier League. He has also been tidy with his ball distribution completing 90.8% of his attempted passes in the English top flight. (stats via whoscored).
Can Moyes Afford To Loose Him Next Summer?
Rice can get stuck in with some strong challenges to win the ball back for the Hammers. He is a decent passer and can create a few inviting chances for his teammates to find the back of the net. The England international has a solid presence in the central areas of the field, being a tough-tackling midfielder who can sense the danger quickly and stop the opposition attackers in their tracks.
An all-around central midfielder of Rice’s quality is difficult to replace and he remains a key player for the club. However, with his contract set to expire in 2024, he will be entering the final year of his current deal which means that West Ham would be in a position whereby they could either take the money on offer or try to convince him on signing a new deal. Although, if they fall short of negotiating a contract renewal it would mean that they could risk losing him for a reduced price.
