West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice will leave the east London club next summer, according to journalist Matt Law. 

The Lowdown: Rice linked with West Ham exit

The England international has been linked with a move away from the London Stadium in the past, with a report last April claiming that he had turned down a third offer from West Ham to sign a new deal and is instead looking to leave the club.

At the moment, the 23-year-old is focused on international duties as he has played every minute of action for England in the World Cup ahead of tonight's concluding group match against Wales.

However, it appears as though some behind-the-scenes details have emerged regarding what the future could hold for the £60k-per-week Hammers star.

The Latest: Rice to leave West Ham in 2023?

Speaking on a recent episode of the London Is Blue podcast (via TEAMtalk), Matt Law made an emphatic claim about Rice's medium-term future.

He said: "Rice, he will definitely, definitely leave West Ham at the end of this season. I’m 100% confident on that. West Ham are preparing to sell Declan Rice. I think it’ll be about £70m."

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The Verdict: Disappointment for West Ham

As the only West Ham player to feature for every minute of Premier League action this season, it's safe to say that the midfielder - who has been labelled an "unbelievable talent" in the past by 90min journalist Toby Cudworth - is a crucial member of David Moyes' squad.

With more progressive passes (61) made than any other Irons player, along with the second-highest combined total of tackles and interceptions (60) at the club, it's clear to see what Rice gives to the team and what they could be losing if they do sell him next summer.

 

Taking all that into account, it would definitely be disappointing for West Ham to see their midfield star leaving the club in 2023.

However, if they do cash in on him for the price that Law mentioned, they would need to use that money to bring in someone who could be a suitable replacement for him and what he offers on the pitch.