Chelsea have reportedly had an audacious swap deal for Declan Rice rejected by London rivals West Ham United.
The Blues are keen to bring in the seven-cap England international this summer, but United are said to value him at £80m.
With a straight-cash offer not being considered, The Times claims that West Ham were offered both Michy Batshuayi and Ross Barkley in exchange.
However, the Irons supposedly rebuffed the proposal and have told Chelsea to pay up the full amount if they wish to land their man.
The same report suggests that Frank Lampard intends to convert holding midfielder Rice into a centre-back should he eventually join Chelsea, though that is looking increasingly unlikely.
Written by
Daniel Lewis
Daniel Lewis
