Chelsea cool their interest in English star even as rivals continue to be linked

Chelsea concede ground to Liverpool and Manchester United in the race for Declan Rice

Speaking on the Transfer Window Podcast (h/t The Express), Ian McGarry has revealed that Chelsea have cooled their interest in Declan Rice.

The West Ham United star came through the ranks at Stamford Bridge before being released by the club in 2014. In recent windows, he been linked with a return, especially given the high opinion Frank Lampard had of him.

However, it would appear that the change in guard has brought about a change in priorities of the club’s transfer targets.

“He is no longer on the transfer list of recruitment possibilities for the Stamford Bridge club.”

With the Blues taking a backseat, Premier League rivals Manchester United and Liverpool have made overtures to land the Hammers ace.

“Both of whom have expressed interest to Rice’s agent as we understand and they have asked to be kept informed of any offers made for the England international.”

Both clubs have made contact with the player’s agent and with Chelsea out of the picture, United could sign him in the summer. Ironically, now that we are out of the running, West Ham are willing to let Rice leave for a lower fee. (h/t Irish Sun)

But Thomas Tuchel has his own plans for who he wants to bring in during the summer. The German appears to have earmarked Nicklas Sule as a key target. However, the player is well settled at Bayern Munich and could prove difficult to acquire. (h/t The Express)

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Chelsea’s drop in interest regarding Rice does not take away from the fact that he has had an excellent season. The 22-year-old has a bright future ahead of him and could turn out to be an excellent signing elsewhere.

As of now, a new dawn beckons and the Thomas Tuchel era has only just got going.