Newcastle United are reportedly eyeing a sensational move for Declan Rice in the summer.

The Lowdown: Standout performer

The 23-year-old has been a standout performer for West Ham United in the Premier League over the past year.

The midfielder ranks in the 94th percentile for interceptions and pass completion among other players in his position in Europe's top five leagues (FBRef), and in 2021/22 he was crowned 'Hammer of the Year' - given to the best player at West Ham over the course of the season - for the second time.

Currently at the FIFA World Cup in Qatar with England, Rice will be one of the key players for Gareth Southgate in the tournament, having amassed 34 senior caps already by the age of 23.

The Latest: Newcastle interested in Rice

As per West Ham insiders Claret & Hugh, Newcastle are eyeing a sensational move for Rice in the summer, as he is seen as the kind of player who can be a 'cornerstone' in their long-term project.

The Magpies have the 'finances required' to make a deal happen, but may face competition from both Manchester United and Chelsea for his signature, while any move may be dependent on whether or not they qualify for the Champions League.

Nonetheless, 'Hammers insiders' believe that Newcastle may see an opportunity to sign Rice in the summer.

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The Verdict: Statement move

Rice would certainly be a statement signing, should the Tyneside club be able to pull off a deal for him.

Hailed as the 'best central midfielder in the country' and a potential '£160million' player by former England midfielder and top-flight manager Scott Parker, the Hammers captain could take Newcastle's midfield to yet another level after the arrival of Brazilian star Bruno Guimaraes in January.

Given his age and his status as an England international, Rice would certainly not come cheap, but the Magpies should do all that they can to sign a player who could be a mainstay in their midfield for the next decade.

Nonetheless, they will likely need to qualify for the Champions League in order to do so, although they are sitting pretty in third place in the Premier League table at the moment.