Chelsea boss Frank Lampard has reportedly had a change of heart regarding Declan Rice's potential role at Stamford Bridge.
West Ham United have allegedly reiterated that Rice, who has four years left on his contract, is not available for any price this summer.
However, given the level of speculation regarding his future, it would come as a surprise if Chelsea did not make a formal approach for the England international.
According to The Athletic, Lampard now sees the Hammers academy graduate as a future member of Chelsea's midfield.
That is a change of stance from the Blues boss, who has previously identified the 21-year-old as a key part of his defensive plans at the West Londoners.
Chelsea will likely have to offer in the region of £70m in order to tempt West Ham into a sale.
Written by
Darren Plant
Darren Plant
