Chelsea are in need of a rework in their midfield department, with key players beyond their peak or nearing the end of their contracts. Co-owner Todd Boehly had tried to begin the overhaul in the central ranks in his time as interim sporting director, kicking off talks to sign Enzo Fernandez from Benfica.
The 21-year-old impressed over the World Cup and fits the age profile desired by the new ownership, but refusal to pay his release clause led to a breakdown in talks. As a result, alternatives elsewhere have been eyed, with long-term transfer target Declan Rice one of those.
The West Ham midfielder is nearing the end of his contract and has already stated his desire to play at the highest level going forward. However, the Blues have been handed a blow as rivals Arsenal appear to be stepping up their own interest in the 24-year-old for the summer.
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With that being the case, another set of midfielders may have to be eyed by the recruitment department for either this January or at the end of the season. With that said, here's a look at three players Chelsea could sign instead of Rice.
Jude Bellingham
One of the potential transfer stories of the next year is that of Borussia Dortmund and England youngster Jude Bellingham. At just 19-years-old he has broken through the ranks to become a key player for club and country, even captaining the former during some clashes this season.
Bellingham is a potentially generational talent that seems set to move in the summer and with an excellent ball-carrying technique surrounding his leadership, he could be a younger option to Rice, though for a larger fee.
Moises Caicedo
Another midfield option that continues to be linked with a switch is Brighton star Moises Caicedo, who is said to be available for roughly £75million. The 21-year-old has burst onto the scene in the Premier League as a pivot for the Seagulls and manager Graham Potter is familiar with his style.
Ruben Neves
A cheaper and more immediate option would be Wolves ace Ruben Neves, who is set to have just one year remaining on his contract come the end of the season. The Portugal international is able to play anywhere across the central midfield ranks and at 25 years old, still has his peak ahead of him.
It may be tough to get a deal over the line in January, given his importance to the Midlands side amid their relegation battle.
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