West Ham respond to Chelsea owner Todd Boehly's attempt to sign Declan Rice

West Ham have dismissed Chelsea’s renewed attempt to sign Declan Rice, with the Hammers adament that the England international will not be sold this summer.

The midfielder was a priority target for Frank Lampard during the Everton boss’ time at Stamford Bridge but the Blues’ interest cooled when Thomas Tuchel took charge.

However, Rice enjoyed his finest campaign to date last term, and was West Ham’s Player of the Year during an impressive season under David Moyes.

Chelsea are looking to replace N’Golo Kante after the Frenchman suffered an injury-ravaged 18 months and the Mirror say the Blues have stepped up their interest in Rice in recent days.

Todd Boehly is keen to make a number of statement signings following his takeover of the club and Rice would be a significant coup given the interest in him from rivals Manchester City and Manchester United.

But West Ham have no intention of selling Rice and they’ve reiterrated that he is not for sale.

Rice has two years left on his deal at the London Stadium and the Hammers are ready to make him their highest paid player of all-time with a new deal.

The Hammers value Rice at £150m, which has put off interest from the top six.

For more stories like this, check our sport page.

Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.