West Ham are planning to reward Declan Rice with a new deal but talks are at an impasse.
According to the print edition of The Sun on Sunday, via Sky Sports, West Ham and Rice are “miles apart” in their expectations.
Rice’s deal expires next summer, although West Ham can trigger an extension. But other clubs are monitoring the situation and plotting a potential cut-price deal for the youngster.
Rice at West Ham
Rice has graduated through the academy at West Ham after joining from Chelsea. Having won the Young Hammer of the Year award twice, he established himself in the first-team set-up last season.
The 3-cap Republic of Ireland international, who is being eyed by England, started as a centre-back but has played in a holding midfield role more often for the Hammers.
The 19-year-old now has 35 senior games to his name. Considering his young age, that is an impressive haul.
Rice played a starring role in last weekend’s win against Everton and is tipped for a bright future.
The verdict
West Ham need to stop messing around with this deal and get it over the line.
Rice’s performances in the first-team merit a new and improved contract. He should be given a long-term deal and a major pay rise to reflect his importance to the squad.
The talented teenager embodies passion and effort on the pitch, he is versatile and for a young player, he shows such maturity and composure on the ball.
His decision making is excellent, his positioning is exceptional and his ability to intercept, tackle, win headers and pass makes him a rounded player.
This is a no-brainer: West Ham must sort this out as a matter of priority. Rice could become the next West Ham captain in the near-future.
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