West Ham boss lifts lid over contract situation of Arsenal, Chelsea target

Oli Fisher

Manuel Pellegrini has told reporters that he is confident Declan Rice will agree a new contract at West Ham.

The 19-year-old centre-back broke into the first team last season and has made 36 appearances for the club, but his contract expires in 2020 and his agent is in talks over a new deal.

The Guardian claims Rice turned down a £15,000-a-week offer in the summer – a considerable raise on his existing £3,000 a week, but his agent Neil Fewings is believed to be looking for a basic of around £30,000.

Rice has impressed in midfield for the Hammers this term and will not be short of offers from elsewhere, but his manager is not concerned.

“Declan I think must try to continue to have good performances, not thinking about more or less money at the moment,” said Pellegrini.

“Nobody at the club is stupid. He’s not a young player anymore and I don’t think he will have any problems with his contract in the future.”

The unrest has though alerted Chelsea, Manchester City, Tottenham, Arsenal, Everton and Wolves, according to the Gambling Times.

 

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