Declan Rice will be 'held back' at West Ham says pundit
Chelsea will reportedly move forward with an approach to sign Declan Rice in the final week of the transfer window. Frank Lampard has already seen a host of new signings join his Chelsea side this summer.
Declan Rice is a target for Chelsea (Image: GETTY)
But the defensive frailties were clear to see and Lampard may well dip into the market one more time to help improve his options.
West Ham's Rice has long been linked with a return to Stamford Bridge having left the west London club as a youth player.
He has since established himself as one of the Premier League's most promising prospects.
His versatility in being able to play in defence as well as the holding midfield role also makes him an attractive proposition for clubs fighting at the top of the table.
West Ham have made it clear that it would take a monumental offer for them to consider selling Rice.
However, the Evening Standard report Chelsea are still going to press ahead with plans to make an official bid to sign Rice this week.
Reports have suggested West Ham value the 21-year-old at £80m which would take Chelsea's spending to well over £300m if they secure a deal for Rice at that price.
Rice was given the captain's armband for Sunday night's 4-0 win over Wolves with Mark Noble named on the bench.
Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Chelsea have already spent big this summer (Image: DX)