Tuchel ‘would love’ him; West Ham decision casts new light on Rice future and price tag

A report claims suitors of West Ham star Declan Rice might be able to land the midfielder sooner than first thought and for less than his current valuation.

The 23-year-old has elevated his game to another level over the past couple of years, with scintillating displays for the Hammers. And he has taken that form to the international stage, with Rice now an England regular. Gareth Southgate has handed him 27 caps and he was a standout player at last summer’s delayed Euro 2020.

Unsurprisingly, a few top clubs have been linked. The Kingston upon Thames-born ace spent eight years in the Chelsea youth setup before moving to the East End.

Blues chief Thomas Tuchel is a known admirer. And Rice has made it clear that he wants to win silverware during his career, prompting speculation of a summer exit.

“I have always said it, I don’t want to have a career where I’ve not won anything,” he told Gary Neville on The Overlap podcast. “Growing up as a kid I’ve seen all these top players win the trophies, win the Premier League, the Champions League.

“Me as a football fan and a player I want to win the best stuff, I want to win the Premier League, I want to lift that trophy, I want to win the Champions League, I want to win the FA Cups, League Cups, even with England, I want to win it all.”

Manchester United are also thought to covet the defensive midfielder. David Moyes has routinely priced his prized asset at £100m. But that might not be the case.

Current Hammers owners David Gold and David Sullivan are thought to be keen to sell the club within two years. Daniel Kretinsky already owns 27 per cent, having made an investment in the club in November last year.

The Czech businessman might look to buy out his current partners. And