Roman Abramovich has reportedly given the green light for Chelsea to wrap up a deal for Declan Rice With Frank Lampard looking to build a side that is more than capable of challenging for that Premier League title next season, Roman Abramovich has backed the club legend financially in the players that he wants to bring to the club.
But one player that has been constantly linked with a move to the Bridge, but do deal has been done, is that of Rice, the Hammers defender that is regarded very highly in the Premier League.
Rice has become one of the best holding midfielders in the top-flight, and his performances have meant that he is now a full England International, and is valued at around the £80 million mark.
However, despite all the rumours that he would be the next layer to arrive at Stamford Bridge during this transfer window, a move has not been able to be completed as the asking price is simply too high.
But Football Insider claim that the Blues owner Roman Abramovich has given the green light for a deal that is set to include England compatriot Ross Barkley in part-exchange.
Barkley previously played under Hammers chief David Moyes at Everton and the Scot is said to be keen on a reunion with the £30million midfielder, but will still be very reluctant to let his best player leave the club.
Moyes has admitted that he does not want to lose Rice and that only a sensational offer may get a deal done: “It was always the plan, there was no intention to lose Declan Rice,” Moyes said. “We have had no bids and no enquiries. There is a lot of speculation but I can only tell you what I know.
“I wouldn’t want to lose him anyway because he is too big a player for us, he is too important and a big part of the squad. “He’s been captain already, I think he is learning a lot of leadership from Mark Noble, so I hope in the future we will have an incredibly talented footballer with great leadership skills and will be the captain of West Ham.
Asked if it would take ‘Bank of England’ money to sign Rice, Moyes added: “Well I hope that is the case. We have still got a long way to go in the window, maybe somebody has the Bank of England but nobody has shown that.” Chelsea will make an official offer, but they dont have long to get this deal wrapped up.’