Chelsea chiefs 'not convinced by Declan Rice'

Chelsea are reportedly unlikely to move for West Ham United's Declan Rice in January and could drop their interest in the England international entirely.

The 21-year-old was strongly linked with a move to Stamford Bridge over the summer, but the transfer window closed with the defensive midfielder still at West Ham.

Chelsea continue to be credited with an interest in Rice, who has been in impressive form for the Hammers during the 2020-21 campaign, not missing a single minute of their Premier League season thus far.

However, according to The Athletic reporter David Ornstein, while Blues boss Frank Lampard is a huge admirer, Chelsea chiefs have their reservations.

Ornstein claims that senior figures at Stamford Bridge have doubts over the midfielder's ability, while West Ham's high asking price, thought to be in the region of £80m, has put them off.

Rice's contract at the London Stadium is due to run until June 2024.