Declan Rice: West Ham could now complete deal ‘well in excess of £100m’ after update – expert
West Ham should look to “get the maximum” for Declan Rice this summer if they cannot give him the Champions League football he deserves, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed a “£100million-plus” sale would allow the Irons to strengthen all over the pitch in the summer window.
According to The Guardian (22 April), Rice has rejected West Ham’s latest contract offer with his current deal set to expire in 2024.
The Hammers have the option to extend his contract for a further year.
Whelan claimed only a potential Europa League win could tempt Rice to stay at the London Stadium.
He told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury: “I think it’s just a case of watch this space right now, isn’t it?
“If they get into the Champions League via the Europa League, that gives him more reason to stay. But I think if they can’t do that, it might be a case of getting the maximum for him right now.
“That way, they can start building with the money they get right now. And it would be a lot of money as well, probably well in excess of £100m.
“You have to look at the bigger picture – that money could improve them all over the pitch.
“Champions League football dictates a lot, and I think it’s time for him to step up to that level.”
As quoted by the Mirror (25 April), Moyes appeared to leave the door ajar to a potential exit – recalling the sale of Wayne Rooney when he was manager of Everton.
“I sold Wayne Rooney and Everton got better,” he said – before reassuring fans that West Ham have “no intention” of selling Rice.
In other news, pundit tips Tomas Soucek for surprise West Ham role after injury update.