Chelsea prioritise 22-year-old PL star as Tuchel looks to bolster this key area

Transfer News: Declan Rice is a priority signing for Chelsea

According to transfer news from Mirror, Declan Rice is said to be a priority signing for Chelsea. The Blues are looking to add a midfielder to their ranks and their former academy star, who now plays for West Ham, is someone they want.

Chelsea are not unfamiliar with Rice after he spent time in their academy. However, he chose to leave for West Ham in order to continue his development. During his spell with the Hammers, he has quietly gone about establishing himself as one of the most reliable defensive midfielders in the league and for England as well.

The 22-year-old was one of the names Frank Lampard wanted at Chelsea during his time at Stamford Bridge. Since the arrival of Tuchel though, interest in the West Ham midfielder cooled down a bit. Nonetheless, Chelsea are ready to revisit their interest in Rice.

Reputed journalist Fabrizio Romano claimed that Rice is Chelsea’s priority signing but West Ham will demand a lot for him.

“At the moment, Chelsea’s priority in midfield is Declan Rice. If they will sign a midfielder, Declan Rice will be one of the biggest possibilities. Then, they have to find an agreement with West Ham, and it won’t be easy because West Ham are asking for a lot of money for him.”

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It would be wise to freshen up the midfield before the new season and add some much-needed depth and quality to it. At just 22 years of age, Rice can be a huge long-term acquisition for Chelsea. Alongside Kante, he can flourish and Chelsea will benefit as well.