Chelsea have been linked with a move for West Ham captain Declan Rice for the last few years now. The Blues let Rice leave at a young age but the England international could now be closing in on a return to Stamford Bridge after nearly nine years.
The 23-year-old midfielder joined Chelsea's academy back in 2006 before being released eight years later, in turn joining the Hammers youth setup. Rice is now considered to be one of the most talented midfielders in the Premier League with a number of top clubs, including the Blues and Liverpool monitoring his situation at West Ham.
His close friendship with Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount has continued to spark speculation as to whether the Hammers star will return to Stamford Bridge after he recently admitted that he wants to challenge for the big trophies like some of his England teammates. As we enter 2023 in the next week, the 23-year-old will enter the final 18 months of his current deal with West Ham who are facing their final chances to secure a big return on their star player.
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David Moyes is aware that keeping hold of his captain will be a difficult task, but remained defiant when asked about Rice's future. Speaking to the Evening Standard, the Hammers boss said: “He wants to win and play for a really good side which is going to give him the opportunity to do so.
"We hope that we can reach the Champions League. It is looking difficult at this time. But we’re not just going to roll over and let Dec walk out of the building, that is for sure."
As his contract continues to run down, Moyes is expecting a 'big fight' between the likes of Chelsea and Liverpool for Rice, as West Ham try to convince him to sign a renewal. Moyes continued: "It is going to be a big fight.
"I like it because he wants to challenge himself and he wants to play in the big games and be a top player. I don’t think you’re ever going to hold anybody back from having those ambitions.”
Midfield will be a key area to strengthen in the summer with the futures of both N'Golo Kante and Jorginho still uncertain as they enter the final six months of their respective deals. Jude Bellingham, Enzo Fernandez and Rice have all been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge as Todd Boehly looks to freshen up the playing squad.
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