Chelsea target Declan Rice hints at long-term London stay

West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice has suggested that he does not see himself spending a significant part of his career away from London.

Rice has come through the academy setup at the Hammers to make a total of 171 appearances in all competitions, while the 23-year-old has a contract at the London Stadium until 2024.

However, speculation persists of a future transfer to Chelsea - the club that Rice supported during his childhood - and his recent comments will only act as a boost to the Blues.

Speaking to The Overlap, the England international said: "I'm here all the time. I've always wanted to stay close to this place, I feel like I don't want to lose my roots."

Having been question on his Chelsea background, he added: "Yeah, growing up the whole family was Chelsea. I feel like it's out there - everyone knows, it's well documented.

"But I feel like when you play for a club like West Ham you become really affiliated to it, and there's part of me now - and my family as well - that is a massive West Ham fan."

West Ham have always stated that Rice is not for sale, with manager David Moyes suggesting in the past that it would take a bid of £100m to prise the player away from the East Londoners.