Chelsea ‘face resistance’ as they offer two players for Rice
Chelsea could face an uphill battle if they want to land West Ham midfielder Declan Rice this summer, according to a report.
The Blues are understood to be keen on the 21-year-old, who is under contract until 2024, but Frank Lampard publicly dismissed interest in Rice recently.
Last month Lampard said: “Declan Rice is a good player, you’re right, and I’ve known Declan Rice for a long time, as he was in the Chelsea academy, but there’s no talk.
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“I keep saying, about every player we’ll be asked about. Until these games and this season is finished, there’s nothing to say.”
However, The Times now claim that Chelsea ‘have faced resistance to try’ and sign Rice as the Hammers ‘do not want to sell’ one of their prized assets.
The Blues ‘are willing to offer Ross Barkley and Michy Batshuayi to West Ham United as part of a swap deal for the England midfielder’ but the Hammers aren’t interested in the pair.
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And with West Ham now in a ‘stronger position’ after avoiding relegation it could be harder for Chelsea to sign Rice.
Michy Batshuayi.
One year left on his contract. Earns £120.000 per week.
Chelsea would like to use him in a part-exchange deal for other targets. (aka Declan Rice)
He rejected a move to West Ham a few times in the past (with a reason). He’s still considering his options. pic.twitter.com/cdla8ImCMX
— Kristof Terreur 📰🎥 (@HLNinEngeland) July 21, 2020
