West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice reportedly has many admirers at Real Madrid, with the Spanish and European champions identifying the England international as a transfer target.
The 23-year-old was again in impressive form for the Hammers during the 2021-22 campaign, making 48 appearances in all competitions, contributing four goals and four assists in the process.
Rice's future has again been the subject of speculation this summer, with the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United and Manchester City all believed to be keen to sign him.
West Ham have Rice on a deal until June 2024, with the option of a further 12 months, though, and it has been claimed that his valuation is in excess of £150m.
A recent report claimed that Chelsea had made a fresh approach for their former youngster but were once again informed that he would not be allowed to leave the Hammers in the current market.
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West Ham recently allegedly offered Rice an eight-year contract worth £200,000 a week in a bid to convince him to commit his future to the club, but the midfielder signalled that he did not want to sign the deal.
Rice has scored nine times and registered nine assists in 192 appearances for the Hammers in all competitions, while he is also now a vital player for England, managing two goals in 32 caps.
According to Defensa Central, Real Madrid are admirers of the former Chelsea youngster and could make a move for him during next summer's transfer window.
Los Blancos have added Aurelien Tchouameni to their squad this summer in a big-money deal from Monaco, and central midfield is an area of strength at Bernabeu, with Luka Modric, Casemiro, Toni Kroos, Eduardo Camavinga and Federico Valverde all options for Carlo Ancelotti.
However, Real Madrid are said to be prepared to spend big on Borussia Dortmund's Jude Bellingham next summer, with Rice a potential alternative if a move for the former falls through.
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Rice's next move will allegedly not be driven by wages, rather the opportunity to compete for major trophies, while he wants to be playing in the Champions League on a yearly basis.
West Ham have reportedly made the decision not to sell Rice this summer but would consider offers ahead of the 2023-24 campaign, should the player express a desire to leave.
The midfielder played a key role in the Hammers reaching the semi-finals of last season's Europa League, scoring three times in 10 appearances, while he has also impressed in the Premier League, scoring once and providing four assists in 34 appearances.
Man United and Man City are both believed to have considered moves for Rice this summer but cooled their interest after being informed of West Ham's position.
Matt Law
