Tuesday's Chelsea transfer talk news roundup: Declan Rice, Jadon Sancho, Olivier Giroud

The January transfer window is now open, with Chelsea continuing to be linked with a host of big names.

The Blues were the biggest spenders in the summer, splashing more than £200m, but they have been tipped to do yet more business in January as they look to bridge the gap to the leading pack in the Premier League.

Here, Sports Mole rounds up the latest news on possible comings and goings from Stamford Bridge.

Tuesday morning's Chelsea transfer talk news roundup:

Chelsea 'set out long-term plan for Declan Rice'

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Chelsea reportedly possess a long-term plan for West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice.

The 21-year-old is regarded as the Hammers' most prized asset having come through the club's academy system to become a regular with England.

However, Rice's progression has naturally led to widespread interest in his signature, including from Chelsea, who have made him a top transfer target.

Despite being rebuffed in the past, The Sun claims that the West Londoners remain undeterred in their efforts to sign the player.

Providing that the first-team squad is reduced in January, Chelsea are expected to make a fresh bid to sign the defensive-minded star.

The report suggests that Frank Lampard see Rice as a long-term fixture in the middle of his defence.

Borussia Dortmund chief admits Man Utd talk affected Jadon Sancho form

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Borussia Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke has admitted that speculation surrounding Jadon Sancho's future likely caused the attacker to lose his "fluency".

Manchester United were expected to wrap up a deal for the England international in the summer, but the Red Devils ultimately failed to agree a fee with Dortmund and he remained at the Westfalenstadion.

Sancho has struggled to live up to last season's high standards after a summer of speculation, though, and Watzke thinks that the protracted transfer saga has indeed had an effect on his performances.

Speaking to German outlet Kicker, Watzke said: "Jadon had probably already subconsciously prepared himself a little bit for a change. I think he had at least thought about it so much that he lost his fluency.

"But I've felt he's been trying very hard for weeks. Things will pick up again very quickly. He is still one of the greatest talents there is."

Liverpool and Chelsea have reportedly joined Man United in the race to sign Sancho, who scored his first Bundesliga goal of the season at the 12th attempt in Dortmund's 2-0 win over Wolfsburg on Sunday.

More transfer news from Chelsea:

Andrea Pirlo confirms Juventus interest in Chelsea forward Olivier Giroud
Juventus boss Andrea Pirlo suggests that he is interested in signing Chelsea forward Olivier Giroud during the January transfer window. Read more.