As per reports out of Spain, a West Ham United transfer update has come to light involving Valencia star Carlos Soler.

The Lowdown: Rice rumours prevalent...

Hammers superstar Declan Rice has been repeatedly linked with an east London exit recently with no sign of a new deal just yet despite West Ham's rumoured intentions.

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The England international rejected two new contract offers last summer and Premier League rivals like Man City and Man United are allegedly prepared to test West Ham's resolve in the summer (The Telegraph).

Irons players apparently fear Rice could be tempted by a move away in the summer and, as per a Spanish source, it appears the club and transfer chief Rob Newman are preparing themselves for that eventuality.

The Latest: West Ham could make 'great proposal' for Soler...

According to the claim out of Europe, West Ham 'may lose' their star midfielder with inquiries having already been made.

As a result, West Ham are 'already preparing' to find Rice's replacement and could make a 'great proposal' to sign Valencia star Soler this summer.

The Spaniard is apparently very liked at Rush Green as David Moyes scours the market for possible Rice alternatives.

The Verdict: Right call?

Soler has been a revelation at the Mestalla Stadium this season, scoring nine goals and assisting four others in 21 La Liga appearances, coming as a bit of an all-rounder.

The 25-year-old, still fairly young with a long shelf life, can play in a variety of midfield roles and his current deal expires in 2023 - putting West Ham in a potentially strong negotiating position to sign Soler for less than his £45 million market valuation (Transfermarkt).

If Rice were to leave, the Irons could certainly do a lot worse for a replacement.

In other news: West Ham join race for £30m 'beast' as Newman now eyes 'exciting signing' for Moyes! Find out more here.