‘Just to be clear’; transfer guru reveals ‘huge chance’ over West Ham star’s future plans

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has responded to David Moyes’ jibe over comments he made about Declan Rice and admits the midfielder may stay at West Ham.

Rice, 23, has enjoyed another outstanding campaign for the Hammers. The England star has made 32 Premier League appearances and 44 in all competitions. He has helped the East End outfit to seventh spot in th Premier League standings.

And his performances in the Europa League have underpinned a march to the semi-finals. The first leg of that last-four tie with Eintracht Frankfurt takes place at the London Stadium on Thursday night.

Rice’s status in the game has been elevated to a new level this term. Talk has inevitably turned to his future, with several big clubs said to be eyeing a summer swoop.

Chelsea, Manchester United and Manchester City have all been linked. Rice is under contract until the summer of 2024, with an option to extend by a further 12 months.

Romano recently claimed he has now rejected a third new deal from the capital outfit. And, with constant denials that Rice is leaving, Moyes responded to the Italian’s words on Monday.

“Who was the journalist who put it out?” the Scot asked reporters. “One of the local boys then.”

The future of West Ham’s superstar schemer is likely to dominate the back pages in the off-season. And his future is far from certain

There is no question that Rice could command a spot in the midfield of any top English club. He is now the go-to man for Three Lions chief Gareth Southgate after his superb showing in Euro 2020.

The Kingston upon Thames-born ace has earned 28 England caps to date, scoring twice for his nation. He looks certain to be part of the side that take on the best in the world in Qatar later this year.

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