Liverpool

Liverpool

Premier League • England

Multiple clubs in fierce battle for £150million man, but ‘would suit Liverpool’ more than others

Declan Rice, Harry Kane, Jack Grealish, England, March 2022.

John Barnes explained why Declan Rice ‘would suit’ Liverpool more than some of the other big sides linked with the massive transfer.

Rice has established himself as one of the biggest names in the Premier League of late. Indeed, he has been a linchpin of the West Ham side over the last couple of seasons.

The midfielder was a vital cog in the Hammers’ sixth-placed finish last season. He scored two goals and assisted one, but his contribution is bigger than just goals and assists.

Indeed, he wears the captains armband in the absence of Mark Noble, and is a true leader for West Ham. What’s more, he has been vital in another good Hammers campaign this term, leading them to the Europa League quarter-finals, as well as their current position of sixth in the Premier League.

Following Rice’s great performances in a West Ham shirt over the last few seasons, as well as in an England shirt, he has attracted interest from some big clubs.

Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool have all been linked with the 23-year-old. It appears a step up in his career may not be far off.

Former Liverpool man John Barnes, feels as if a move to the Reds would be a better fit for Rice than some other clubs.

“Rice would fit the profile of what Liverpool want,” he said via football.london.

West Ham price Declan Rice at £150m this summer

West Ham price Declan Rice at £150m this summer

Declan Rice will cost £150m if any club wants to sign the midfielder from West Ham

“He’s a hard-working, strong midfield player who can win tackles, break things up, defend well, and that’s the profile they look for.”

Rice would no doubt be a good signing for the majority of sides, given his quality in the middle of the park.

Manchester City warned off Declan Rice

West Ham midfielder Declan Rice

Barnes also mentioned that Rice might not be a good addition to the Manchester City side.

“He probably wouldn’t suit a team like Man City, but he can break the game up, cover the full backs if they go up and down, so he would suit Liverpool.

“But he’s at West Ham and Liverpool haven’t made a bid for him, so it’s speculation. If it happens it’s a great acquisition,” he said.”

Rice will no doubt still be pursued by a number of sides, despite Barnes’ declaration.

West Ham appear more than keen to keep hold of him, though. David Moyes has bumped up his valuation of the star to £150million, so if a club does land him, they will be parting with a massive sum.

READ MORE: EXCLUSIVE: Fulham confident over Frenchman’s return with big West Ham implications