Chelsea transfer target Declan Rice is reportedly not demanding a transfer away from West Ham United despite rejecting two contract offers. The interest in his signature is certainly not a surprise however, considering the midfielder’s performances both on a club and international basis. He starred for the Hammers last season as they secured their second-highest Premier League finish ever under David Moyes. Rice then carried that form into Euro 2020 as Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions reached the final – only to be defeated on penalties by Italy. He played in every single game of the tournament. Rice has previously admitted that he does not concern himself with transfer speculation.
Declan Rice said “I’m playing week in, week out. I have a special connection with the fans. It’s unbelievable [the London Stadium]. I love every minute of being at West Ham. Being compared to players, being linked to other teams, I don’t really take any of it in, to be honest. If you think about it too much you get caught up in it. I’m only 20, you’ve got your whole career ahead of you. I’m just focused on playing for West Ham and playing with a smile on my face and enjoying it.”
The midfielder has consistently been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge over the past couple of seasons. The links first emerged under former boss Frank Lampard, with it also being reported that Thomas Tuchel had revived the club’s interest. His current employers West Ham have not received any formal offers for his services. Rice has also reportedly rejected two offers to extend his current deal, which runs until the summer of 2024.
