Why Declan Rice would be a good signing for Chelsea
As per the Independent, Chelsea are trying to wrap up their spectacular summer spending spree with the signing of Declan Rice from West Ham.
Profile
Declan Rice is a 21-year-old English midfielder who plays for West Ham United. A surprising fact about him is that he started out his youth career at Chelsea back in 2006. After getting released, he joined West Ham’s academy in 2014.
After four years in the youth team, Rice broke into the first team during the 2017-18 season. In the following seasons, he impressed one and all and has since gone on to make more than 100 appearances for the Hammers.
Despite playing for the Ireland national youth teams and representing the senior side three times in friendlies, Rice pledged his allegiance for England and was subsequently drafted into the Three Lions setup. So far, he has nine caps for England.
Rice is a very versatile defensive player who can play as a defensive midfielder as well as a centre-back if required.
Do Chelsea need Declan Rice?
While Chelsea do have a well-stocked midfield, there is always room for improvement. Inter Milan remain interested in N’Golo Kante even though Frank Lampard has ruled out a sale. It has also been speculated that Chelsea are looking to offload Jorginho to fund a move for Rice. (h/t The Guardian).
However, midfield might not be the position that Declan Rice could be playing in. He will most likely be used as a centre-back given Chelsea’s defensive issues and Rice’s experience of playing in that position.
The likes of Fikayo Tomori, Kurt Zouma and Andreas Christensen have not been up to the mark with their shaky performances. In addition, Tomori may be on his way out of the club. with Everton interested.
Thus, securing the services of someone like Rice, who can play at centre-back, would be a smart move by the club. The fact that the England international can provide cover in defensive midfield must only add to the appeal of signing him.
Read more
- Why Chelsea must go ahead with their attempt to land John Stones
- Why Chelsea must end their pursuit of Vinicius Junior
Verdict
Declan Rice is a player Chelsea need. He is young and proven himself over the last couple of seasons. A tough tackler with a calm head on his shoulders and the ability to play in different positions? Sounds like a great all-round deal for Chelsea. Thus, they must make a move for him before the window closes.
