Chelsea ‘to make last-ditch attempt to sign West Ham’s Declan Rice’ – which could pave the way for Jorginho to join Arsenal as Mikel Arteta’s desperate search for a new midfielder goes on
- Chelsea have not yet given up hope of signing Declan Rice this summer
- West Ham don’t want to sell but Chelsea will make a last attempt to sign him
- And they could sell Arsenal target Jorginho to help facilitate a deal
- Arsenal have identified Jorginho as an alternative to Lyon’s Houssem Aouar
Chelsea are reportedly planning one final move to sign Declan – and could sell Jorginho to Arsenal to facilitate a deal.
Frank Lampard is a big admirer of the England international and has not given up hope of landing him this summer despite West Ham insisting he is not for sell.
According to The Mirror, Chelsea will make a last-ditch attempt to bring in midfielder Rice and Jorginho could end up being the fall guy.
Chelsea will make one final attempt to persuade West Ham to part with Declan Rice
Frank Lampard is a huge admirer of Rice and is hopeful he can sign him before the deadline
Arsenal have an interest in the Italian with Mikel Arteta keen to bolster his midfield ranks.
Atletico Madrid’s Thomas Partey and Lyon star Houssem Aouar remain the prime targets but Jorginho could be a cheaper and more realistic option.
Arsenal aren’t currently in a position to sign Aouar despite reportedly agreeing personal terms with the player.
Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has already expressed his doubts over Arsenal’s capability to finance a deal for the £54million-rated Frenchman.
If Arteta can’t raise the funds, Jorginho is a player he will likely turn to but Chelsea will only allow him to leave if they can strike an agreement with West Ham for Rice.
Chelsea could allow Jorginho to move to Arsenal if they can agree a deal for Rice
Arsenal are keen on Lyon’s Houssem Aouar but may not be able to afford a deal for him
The Hammers have made their reluctance to part with the 21-year-old clear but may be tempted to sell should they receive a huge offer.
Lampard was asked directly about potentially signing Rice this week but chose to remain coy on the subject.
‘Every player would always be a case by case situation. One where there is a happy solution for myself, the player and the club,’ the Chelsea boss said.
‘So yes we have a big squad, we know that but at the moment the players remain ours and we’ll see as time goes on.
‘It’s not my position to speculate on what may be because it’s not my job. And it’s the same for players at other clubs. We have a game against West Brom and my biggest thing is getting the squad ready for that game.’
