West Ham ace favours Chelsea move but Blues must sell star to warn off Manchester United

A transfer to Chelsea for Declan Rice is seemingly unavoidable, but reports suggest Thomas Tuchel will need to part ways with his midfield maestro to warn off suitors Manchester United.
Ethan Evans
By Ethan Evans
Published 7th Feb 2022, 13:32 BST

Declan Rice is still on the radar of Thomas Tuchel’s Chelsea, but the Blues must first offload N’golo Kante to beat Manchester United to his signature.

The 23-year-old has been mightily impressive this season for West Ham United, recently netting a last-minute equaliser in their FA Cup draw with Kidderminster Harriers.

Rice celebrated after scoring last minute equaliser in FA Cup tieRice celebrated after scoring last minute equaliser in FA Cup tie
Rice celebrated after scoring last minute equaliser in FA Cup tie
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The English international is said to be incredibly keen on a move from West London to Stamford Bridge, according to reports.

However, any potential move for Rice to Chelsea hinges on the future of Blues’ midfield star N’golo Kante, who would need to end his six-year stay at the club in order to welcome the Hammers ace.

Manchester United are closely monitoring the transfer situation as the Red Devils have been long-term admirers of the 24-year-old.

When Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was in charge at Old Trafford, Rice was said to be one of his main transfer targets, but United were put off by West Ham’s £100 million valuation.

Chelsea star N’golo Kante has been at the club for six-yearsChelsea star N’golo Kante has been at the club for six-years
Chelsea star N’golo Kante has been at the club for six-years
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A valuation that Chelsea can only reportedly meet if they sell Kante, with Thomas Tuchel not requiring an additional defensive midfielder.

Whereas any chance of Manchester United getting Rice’s signature is reliant on whether or not they qualify for Champions League football next season.

Related topics:Manchester UnitedChelseaDeclan RiceWest Ham

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