Chelsea hopes of signing Declan Rice 'blown out the window' amid 'incredible' claim - pundit
Chelsea hopes of signing Declan Rice have been "blown out of the window" and the midfielder is set to remain at West Ham.
That is the view of former Spurs and England number one Paul Robinson, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the 23-year-old's future.
According to the Daily Mail's Ian Ladyman (22 March), the Hammers have slapped a £150million price tag on their prized asset ahead of the summer.
Chelsea are long-term admirers of the England international, who has strong ties to the club.
He spent eight years in the Blues academy and is also very close friends with Mason Mount.
However, Robinson believes an imminent takeover at Stamford Bridge has all but ended the possibility of a move this summer.
"I would keep him if I was West Ham," he told Football Insider's Dylan Childs.
"The move that he wanted and the move that has been well talked about is Chelsea. That has been blown out of the window now, it cannot happen.
"We knew Chelsea could afford the £100-150million but with the uncertainty I very much doubt that is still the case. It has played into West Ham's hands a little bit.
"I think Declan Rice could do a lot worse than staying put for another season as well. He is playing incredibly well and captaining a football club that are going in the right direction.
"If they can bring in some signings and go again next season there is a lot worse places to be than West Ham. If I was him, I'd stay for another year."
Rice has contributed four goals and four assists in 38 appearances across all competitions this season.
His contract runs until the summer of 2024, with the club holding a 12-month extension clause.