Chelsea could make "another push" for West Ham midfielder Declan Rice this transfer window, according to journalist Pete O'Rourke.

The 23-year-old is thought to be a top target for Chelsea, while it was even claimed last month that the west London club had an approach turned down by their Premier League rivals.

GiveMeSport Transfer Verdict

GiveMeSport Transfer Verdict

What is the latest news involving Rice?

Towards the end of June, 90min reported that West Ham had rejected a fresh approach for Rice from Chelsea.

According to the same outlet, the Hammers are still hopeful that Rice will put pen to paper on a new contract before the start of the season, with his current deal expiring in 2024.

West Ham's reluctance to entertain Chelsea's advances for Rice comes as no huge shock. The England international is arguably David Moyes' most important player.

Last season, he racked up 50 appearances in all competitions, missing just two games in the Premier League.

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What has O'Rourke said about Rice and Chelsea?

O'Rourke cannot see Chelsea giving up on Rice, but he does not expect West Ham's stance to change.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, the journalist said: "I can definitely see Chelsea making another push for him, but I don't think West Ham want to entertain any offers or bids for Declan Rice this summer. They're adamant he is staying. He's been a top target for Chelsea for the last couple of windows."

Who else are Chelsea interested in?

When it comes to midfielders, Barcelona's Frenkie de Jong is another player said to be of interest to Chelsea.

As per The Guardian, the Blues have De Jong on their radar and could make a move for the Dutchman if rivals Manchester United are unable to wrap up a deal for him this summer.

De Jong is certainly a quality player, with Barcelona paying Ajax an initial £65m fee for his services back in 2019. However, if Chelsea are going to sign a new holding midfielder and someone to potentially replace N'Golo Kante in the near future, then Rice comes across as a better fit.

Over the last year, the £72m-rated West Ham star has ranked in the 95th percentile for interceptions among midfielders, while De Jong has ranked in the 10th (via FBref). Ultimately, if Tuchel is searching for a long-term successor to Kante, then Rice, who was hailed as "phenomenal" by Trevor Sinclair last year, looks to be his man.

Unfortunately for the German, though, getting him out of the London Stadium this summer looks like mission impossible.