Liverpool are ‘really interested’ in signing West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice, journalist Rudy Galetti has told GiveMeSport.
The 24-year-old is expected to leave the London Stadium in the summer following a string of impressive performances for both club and country in recent years, with Anfield outlined as a potential landing spot.
Liverpool transfer news – Declan Rice
David Ornstein of The Athletic has recently stated that despite a price tag of around £100 million previously being attached to Rice, he could actually be available for as little as £75 million.
“The word I’m hearing from within the industry is that £75/80/85m is a more realistic figure for Declan Rice this coming summer,” Ornstein told The Athletic Football Podcast.
However, West Ham manager David Moyes evidently disagrees with that sentiment as he has since come out and stated that he will demand a ‘British transfer record’ if he is to ever leave the capital club.
"Undoubtedly Declan is going to be a top player," said Moyes. "He'll be a British transfer record if he ever leaves West Ham."
Chelsea signed Enzo Fernandez for a record £106.8 million fee in January and may have to fork out a similar figure if they want to beat the likes of Liverpool to Rice’s signature.
What has Galetti said about Rice?
Galetti has told GMS that although Arsenal are one of the sides interested in snapping up Rice, Liverpool are another club who are closely monitoring his situation.
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He said: “It's too early to talk about negotiation between clubs because West Ham don't want to discuss about Rice with any clubs until June.
“But for sure, Arsenal will be one that will follow the player with great attention during the next transfer window, and in that sense, we also need to pay attention to Liverpool, who are really interested in him.”
How has Rice been playing?
Rice has continued to put in some solid performances for West Ham this season despite their struggles at the wrong end of the pitch.
The defensive-minded dynamo has registered one goal and three assists in 27 appearances across all competitions for the Hammers while putting up some impressive underlying numbers.
As per FBref, Rice has ranked in the 95th percentile for interceptions, 93rd for pass completion, 90th for progressive passes, 87th for progressive carries, and 83rd for clearances amongst his positional peers over the last year.
Therefore, Rice could be a solid alternative target to Jude Bellingham for Liverpool if they are beaten to the teenager’s signature.