West Ham transfer news: Pundit issues ‘£100m’ Declan Rice exit verdict after ‘urgent’ reveal
West Ham “won’t stand in the way” of a potential exit for Declan Rice if they cannot qualify for the Champions League, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 23-year-old would leave with “everyone’s blessing” if the Hammers’ £100million valuation is met.
As quoted by ESPN (4 March), Rice insisted he is now “one of the established top players around the world” and confirmed his “urgent” desire to play in the Champions League.
The report claims Man City, Man United, and Chelsea could move for the midfielder – who has been valued at £100million.
Rice is out of contract in June 2024, but West Ham hold the option to extend his stay until 2025.
Whelan claimed a potential £100million windfall could “seriously strengthen” David Moyes’ squad.
He told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury: “I think with the respect that Declan Rice has from the fans and the board – maybe they won’t stand in his way if they do miss out on the top four.
“The performances he’s put in have been top-level, and he’s never taken his foot off the gas no matter what – he’s put in 100% every single game and really fought for the club.
“I think the club would understand if he wanted to play in the Champions League, and at the same time they’d be very grateful to get the £100m.
“If they get that fee I think he’d leave with everyone’s blessing. £100m could seriously strengthen that West Ham squad.”
West Ham sit sixth in the Premier League, three points adrift of fourth-placed Arsenal.
The Hammers are in Europa League action against Sevilla tomorrow (10 March).
In other news, pundit claims West Ham have made major transfer blunder after injury latest.