Chelsea to swoop for West Ham United star?

Chelsea will reportedly set their focus on signing Declan Rice from West Ham United once they are able to finalise the purchase of Kai Havertz.

The Blues are the leading contenders to sign Havertz from Bayer Leverkusen this summer and Evening Standard claims they are prepared to pay £70m for his services.

The same publication cites that the Blues are positive about their chances of landing the German in the coming weeks and they could thereafter shift their attention towards Rice.

Rice, who was previously in the Blues academy for eight years, has been an undisputed starter for the Hammers over the past few seasons and he has played in both the central midfield and central defensive roles.

He recently starred for the Hammers in a 3-2 win over the Blues in the derby where he controlled the proceedings in the centre of the park. Still, Frank Lampard wants him as a centre-back, who can feature in a back three for the Blues next term.

West Ham United have recently moved four points clear of the relegation places with five games to play. Should David Moyes' side preserve their top-flight status, they are likely to demand at least £70m to sanction Rice's sale.