Frank Lampard keen on West Ham United star Declan Rice
According to the Sun, Chelsea boss Frank Lampard is keen to bring West Ham United star Declan Rice back to Chelsea.
The 21-year-old will, however, need to reinvent himself as a centre-back rather than as a defensive midfielder. The Blues are increasingly confident they can convince the 21-year-old to cross London this summer.
Lampard is keen to convert Rice into a leading PL defender. The Hammers star has had previous experience of playing in the position having made 50 appearances as a defender.
According to the report, Chelsea believe they can land him for £45million. It goes on to add that Rice is open to making a name for himself in the new position.
Chelsea have struggled in defence this season. Antonio Rudiger has been our best defender, while the likes of Andreas Christensen and Kurt Zouma have enjoyed mixed fortunes.
With the likes of Hakim Ziyech and Timo Werner further amplifying an attack that has seen Christian Pulisic star in, our attack is ready to make a mark.
Tightening ourselves at the back could make the difference between victory and defeat in the coming season. Using Rice in the rearguard is a promising idea that could reap huge benefits.
Lampard is keen to play a back three but is bemoaning the lack of a leader in defence. He feels Rice has all the necessary qualities to succeed and is the answer to his problems.
Should it happen, it will prove to be a triumphant return to the Bridge for the former Chelsea trainee. Having joined the club as a 7-year-old, Rice was eventually released in 2014. (h/t Mirror)
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The Hammers will struggle to keep their gifted star even if they stave off relegation. Rice’s relationship with Mason Mount will also work in our favour.
His performances saw him win West Ham Players’ Player of the Year award while also being declared as Young Hammer of the Year for the third consecutive season. (h/t Mirror)