Chelsea to make £45m bid for Declan Rice?

Chelsea are reportedly planning to make an attempt to sign Declan Rice from West Ham United when the transfer window reopens.

Rice has been linked with a possible exit from the Hammers this summer amid their struggles in the Premier League during the current campaign.

It has been previously suggested that the Hammers may demand at least £70m for the sale of Rice but the Blues are hoping to sign him for a reduced fee.

The Hammers are currently just ahead of the relegation places by virtue of goal difference and Frank Lampard's side believe they can sign him for around £45m, if his club fail to beat the drop.

Rice, who has previously in the Blues academy, has been identified by Lampard as a potential candidate to play in the back three for the west London giants next term.

Rice is capable of featuring in both the defensive midfield and centre-back positions. He has played predominantly in the centre of the park for the Hammers this season, scoring two goals in the process.