Declan Rice wants to join Chelsea in January?

West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice is open to joining Chelsea when the transfer window reopens in a couple of weeks' time.

The England international was strongly linked with the Blues last summer, but they had insufficient funds to purchase him after a £220m spending spree.

They have continued to be linked with his services and football expert Fabrizio Romano claims that Rice could be open to a winter transfer.

The Blues would still need to meet the £80m price tag set by the Hammers, given Rice won't force an exit out of respect for the east London side.

Rice has been the regular captain for the Hammers this term and he has produced a number of dominating displays from the centre of the park.

Aside from Chelsea, Manchester United have also been credited with an interest in Rice with manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said to be an admirer.

They are looking for a new defensive midfielder, who can cement the position for the next decade at least.