Chelsea have been named amongst the clubs interested in acquiring the services of England international Declan Rice this summer.

According to Bleacher Report, Frank Lampard has been monitoring the West Ham star and is keen on bringing him to Stamford Bridge.

The Hammers are currently locked in a tough relegation battle, and the chances of them facing the drop are worryingly high.

Rice has established himself as one of the most sought after young talents in the Premier League. After showcasing his versatility by integrating from a central defender to a defensive midfielder, the 21-year-old has turned a lot of heads.

The England international, who has seven caps so far, made his Hammers debut in 2017, at just 18 years of age. Since then he hasn't looked back. This season especially, Rice has been an integral part of West Ham's set up as an ever-present figure. He also sported the captain's armband against Leicester in December (via Transfermarkt).

As it stands, David Moyes' side are 16th in the table on 27 points, but only out of the drop-zone on goal difference. If the Irons slip up once the season resumes, they could be in serious trouble.

Chelsea are steadily making their way to a place in the Champions League next season and the team morale under Lampard seems to be at an all time high. The Blues are currently fourth in the table after taking on a positive run of form.

Mason Mount and Tammy Abraham have particularly impressed, notching 19 Premier League goals between them this season (as per Transfermarkt). But if they want to ensure squad depth is healthy and their chances of bagging some silverware are high, the club will need to invest.

Chelsea's latest signing has shown they mean business going into the next campaign. The addition of Timo Werner will likely be their marquee signing and poaching Rice would be another great addition.

If West Ham are relegated, they will likely offer up a friendly asking price for the Republic of Ireland turned England international, as they'll need all the funds they can get to bounce back next season.

Do you think Chelsea should sign Declan Rice this summer, Blues? Have your say in the comments below...