The consortium led by Todd Boehly has been shown why Declan Rice qualifies for Chelsea's star-studded summer transfer spree. The newly-crowned owner of the west London club — subject to approval from the Premier League and UK Government — is expected to 'push for A-list signings' once the takeover is completed to earmark the start of a new era at Stamford Bridge, according to the MailOnline.
And, with Rice winning consecutive player of the season award at the London Stadium, the West Ham midfielder has warranted the Blues' interest. Last month, the 23-year-old turned down a third contract renewal proposal from the Hammers and is open to a move in the summer, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Thomas Tuchel is said to love the England international, who sees his contract with David Moyes' side expire in 2024, according to The Athletic. In the summer, Chelsea were reportedly in for Rice, though the west Londoners were put off by the 'steep' £100 million price tag.
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But, football.london understand that it could now take more than the original touted £100 million to even tempt the east London outfit into selling their most prized asset. Nevertheless, Rice has passed the 'N'Golo Kante test', proving that he could marshal Tuchel's midfield.
The Hammers' vice-captain has completed 90 mins in all but one of his 34 Premier League appearances this season. On the other hand, the France international has finished just ten out of 25 appearances.
Kante, who sees his contract at Stamford Bridge at the end of next season, has suffered various minor injuries this season, hampering his ability to nail down an undisputed role in Chelsea's starting eleven. Overall, the 31-year-old midfield has struggled this season to sustain the high levels that he's prided himself on in recent years.
Ironically, Kante has been out of the limelight recently due to injury, and it remains to be seen whether he'll qualify for the matchday squad against Leeds United. The Frenchman last started for the Blues against Manchester United at Old Trafford but picked up an injury during the draw and has been unable to make a squad since.
Speaking ahead of the west London side's visit to Elland Road, Tuchel said: "We are fighting for Jorginho and fighting for N'Golo for tomorrow, but it will be close, but I don't know if we make it."
Jorginho and Kante's current deals expire in the summer of 2023, and rumours are the club will be looking to invest in a midfielder to take them into the future, with both in their thirties now.
Rice has proven with two consecutive West Ham Player Of The Year Awards that he's consistently fit and playing at a high standard. Chelsea's form in recent weeks hasn't been what you'd expect, and for a second consecutive season, they look to be crawling over the line to the end of the season.
