West Ham United may be willing to accept a player plus cash deal for star midfielder Declan Rice this summer, according to a report by Sky Sports.
Since signing his first professional contract in 2017, Rice has been one of West Ham’s brightest players. He began his career as a centre-back but has made his name as a central midfielder.
He has developed a reputation as one of the Premier League’s finest ball-winners in recent seasons. He currently boasts the most interceptions in the league, as well as the sixth-most tackles.
His performances have earned him a regular place in the England national team. He has appeared 41 times for the Three Lions, helping them reach the final of the 2020 European Championships.
The 24-year-old has long been touted for a move away from the London Stadium. Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United and Chelsea have all been named as potential suitors for the midfielder.
West Ham are open to the prospect of selling Rice this summer but will not let him go cheap. The Hammers will demand £120 million for the England international, or £100m plus a player.
Rice’s contract expires in 2024. However, the club have an option to extend by a year, leaving them under little pressure to sell immediately.
Sunday’s home victory over Manchester United has almost guaranteed West Ham’s safety from relegation. They now sit seven points clear of the drop zone with just three games remaining.
The east Londoners will now turn their attention to Thursday’s Europa Conference League semi-final against AZ Alkmaar. The winners will face Fiorentina or Basel in the final.
