---
title: "Chelsea: Blues must finalise Declan Rice deal to avoid losing out to Man United"
canonical: "https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/chelsea-blues-must-finalise-declan-rice-deal-to-avoid-losing-out-to-man-united/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Georgia Goulding"
section: "Chelsea Football Club"
published: "2020-07-18T08:50:12Z"
modified: "2020-07-18T08:50:12Z"
---

# Chelsea: Blues must finalise Declan Rice deal to avoid losing out to Man United

**Chelsea summer target Declan Rice has been linked to Manchester United, with John Barnes backing the Red Devils to sign him this window.**

Speaking to BonusCodeBets (via [TEAMtalk](https://www.teamtalk.com/news/liverpool-legend-man-utd-nemanja-matic-replacement-declan-rice)), the former Liverpool icon has tipped the West Ham star to be a ‘good signing’ for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

Rice’s current [Transfermarkt value](https://www.transfermarkt.co.uk/declan-rice/profil/spieler/357662) is £44.5million, which could see the Hammers request a price of similar value if they are to be relegated this season.

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“United must look to the future and Declan Rice is a good young English player,” Barnes said. “He would be a good signing for United. Of course, he’s a West Ham player. From his own point of view if he must move on, I think United would be a good place for him.”

Chelsea are looking to bolster their squad with Hakim Ziyech and Timo Werner already on the books. According to a [recent report from The Times,](https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/frank-lampard-wants-declan-rice-in-defence-9zksh96dh) Frank Lampard is an admirer of Rice and his versatility. The England international can operate well in both a centre-back and defensive midfield position which would suit Lampard’s transitional squad.

The 42-year-old has identified the West Ham ace as a potential fix for his side’s defensive issues.

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United are keen on Rice, but Barnes doesn’t feel like he would get into the starting lineup with Nemanja Matic still at the club. This could be a boost for the Blues if the 21-year-old is looking for regular game time.

***Do you think Chelsea can clinch a deal for Declan Rice, Blues? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below…***