Speaking to GiveMeSport, journalist and 'transfer insider' Dean Jones has made a claim on Wednesday night, sharing a worry for West Ham United involving star man Declan Rice.
The Lowdown: Rice concerns at Rush Green...
Recent reports indicate that West Ham and manager David Moyes could be concerned about Rice.
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Indeed, as explained by The Telegraph, the England international star is attracting major interest from top clubs in the Premier League - including the likes of Man United, Man City and London rivals Chelsea.
A lot could depend on where the Hammers finish at the end of 2021/2022, and if they can't seal a place in Europe next year, Rice may well grow more and more open to leaving.
There have already been murmurs of the 23-year-old being 'ready to leave this year' with Old Trafford being his preferred destination, at least according to 90min reporter Scott Saunders.
The Latest: Jones makes worrying Rice claim...
Speaking to GMS, reporter Jones has now backed that Rice could be edging closer to a Rush Green departure, stating the midfielder is 'more open than ever' to leaving.
He explained: “I think that any buying club might be helped by the fact that Declan Rice, from what I’m hearing, does seem more open than ever about the idea of leaving West Ham. That could be interesting.”
The Verdict: Big blow?
The player's stance on leaving comes as a blow given in-house tension could disrupt the harmony of Moyes' squad.
However, one glimmer of hope is the one-year extension option currently in Rice's deal, so if the Three Lions ace does attempt to leave, GSB are in a strong position to command huge transfer fees.
That being said, his influence would be sorely missed, with the West Ham mainstay averaging more interceptions per 90 than anyone in Moyes' squad and their second-highest Premier League match rating per 90 (WhoScored).
In other news: Sky Sports: West Ham eyeing £21.6m-rated star for Moyes, he's set to move! Find out more here.