Speaking to Football Insider after West Ham United images emerged of Declan Rice celebrating in the stands last weekend, pundit Paul Robinson has dropped a transfer claim involving the Englishman.

Rice is currently sidelined with a knee injury and had to watch from the stands as the Hammers pick up a vital three points in the race for an unprecedented European finish.

Goals from Jesse Lingard (x2) and Jarrod Bowen were eventually enough to fight off a Leicester City side determined to mount a late comeback.

Robinson drops Rice transfer claim

David Moyes' men managed to cling on for a 3-2 win at the London Stadium, with images emerging during the encounter of sidelined star Rice appearing over the moon.

In reaction to these photos, Robinson has claimed the 22-year-old will be 'licking his lips' at the prospect of Champions League football next season and is very unlikely to go anywhere this summer amid transfer links. 

"I think the likelihood of being in Europe and potentially even the Champions League make Declan Rice’s decision easier,” explained Robinson to Football Insider.

"West Ham will be able to attract top players to the club this summer if they finish in Europe.

“They have made huge stride as a club this season and why would you want to leave?

“You can see that he is very happy at the moment and I am sure he will be licking his lips at the prospect of playing in Europe in front of a packed London Stadium.

"I cannot see him going anywhere this summer."

Transfer Tavern take

As West Ham continue to exceed all expectations, we also believe that Rice definitely won't be going anywhere.

The midfield maestro has been a crucial cog in Moyes' system this season, making a brilliant two interceptions per game in the Premier League before his injury (WhoScored).

As a result, GSB and co reportedly value him at somewhere around £100 million (Sky Sports), and in this climate, it's very unlikely any club will be able to afford that - even if Rice did want to leave.

In other news: West Ham eyeing this colossus, find out more here.