Former Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Jamie Redknapp has urged Spurs to make a move for West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice, who has recently been linked with a move to North London rivals Arsenal.
Rice, who was initially part of Chelsea’s academy, joined West Ham in 2013 and has since become one of the best midfielders in the Premier League, earning a spot in the England national team. The 24-year-old has been a mainstay at West Ham, amassing 238 appearances for the club with 14 goals and 13 assists to his name.
Although Rice is currently the captain of West Ham, his time at the club may be coming to an end as his contract is set to expire at the end of next season. Chelsea have also been previously linked with Rice.
Speaking to Football.London, Redknapp suggested that Tottenham should also be in the running to acquire Rice, but he doesn’t see the club entering the race with Arsenal for his signature.
Redknapp said: “Declan Rice is available. Now, Arsenal are in the mix, why can’t Spurs be in the mix? That’s the sort of level of player they need to be trying to acquire. That’s what they should be doing right now but I just don’t think that’ll happen. We could and should be at least speaking to Rice and trying to snap him up, but I highly doubt we will.”
However, Redknapp believes that Tottenham may not be able to offer Rice the Champions League football he desires, which could make it challenging for the club to attract the talented midfielder.
“It will be a shame to see him go to Arsenal if that does happen, as that will make them exponentially stronger and be exactly the kind of symbol of ambition that we should be striving to display,” Redknapp added.
While it remains to be seen whether Tottenham will make a move for Rice, it is clear that the midfielder is in high demand, and his next move could have a significant impact on the Premier League landscape.