Frank Leboeuf has insisted that Chelsea must sign Declan Rice at all costs despite competition from Arsenal. The 24-year-old midfielder has been heavily linked with a departure from West Ham for some time now as he continues to impress.
Despite the arrival of Jorginho in January, football.london understand that the Gunners still hold a strong interest in Rice. It's also understood that the Hammers captain remains a key target for the Blues, where he earned his stripes alongside Mason Mount in the academy before he was eventually released.
The England international sees his contract at the London Stadium expire at the end of next season, but it's said that West Ham have the option to extend his stay by a further year. However, Rice has previously voiced his ambition to play in the Champions League and, with the east Londoners only capable of clinching a Europa League spot this term, a switch could be on the cards.
