Chelsea are keeping tabs on Declan Rice’s contractual situation at West Ham, according to a report from Graeme Bailey for The Gambling Times.
The Blues are believed to be one of several Premier League clubs to have kept a close eye on Rice’s predicament at the London Stadium, as his contract continues to run down.
Rice has emerged as a key player for the Hammers in recent times, with Manuel Pellegrini’s establishing him as a mainstay in the first team’s starting line-up.
The defender, who is also capable of playing in a holding midfield role, was once involved in Chelsea’s youth setup. When he was released at just 14-years-old, however, he sought pastures new with West Ham.
Pellegrini’s side appear to be sweating over Rice’s long-term future at the club, however, with the youngster’s contract at the London Stadium expiring at the end of the season.
Chelsea, along with a plethora of other apparently interested Premier League clubs, will, therefore, be presented with an opportunity to negotiate a free transfer with Rice upon the opening of the January transfer window.
