Chelsea unlikely to sign Declan Rice

Chelsea are unlikely to revive their interest in West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice after the dismissal of manager Frank Lampard.

Lampard had identified Rice as one of the top targets for the summer, but the Blues hierarchy refused to meet the £80m price tag.

The England international has continued to be linked with the Blues in recent months, but the club are unlikely to make a fresh approach.

According to The Telegraph, the Blues officials had differing views to Lampard over signing their former academy graduate.

It is added that they won't revive their pursuit of the midfielder unless new boss Thomas Tuchel wants the club to push ahead with a deal.

Rice has transformed into one of the Premier League's most consistent defensive midfielders, but he could yet leave the Hammers this summer.

Manchester United and Liverpool are said to hold an interest in his services and the former could be prepared to spend big for him.