By Gonzo
Hammers sporting director Mark Noble has admitted that midfielder Declan Rice will need to leave the club to fulfill his ambitions.
The West Ham captain, who has long been recognised as one of England’s best, is in the final 6 months of his current Hammers contract, which also includes a 2-year extension clause, and has turned down a number of offers of a new deal.
Dec is understood to be keen to play in the Champions League and perform at the top level, with Premier League leaders Arsenal, ready to rival Chelsea for his signature.
Publicly, Irons manager David Moyes has pledged that Rice would only be sold for a Premier League transfer record, which is currently the £106 million Chelsea paid to land Enzo Fernandez in January.
Speaking to the Evening Standard, sporting director Mark Noble admitted he understands Rice’s interest in moving and conceded that a move may his former team-mates only option.
“It’s just the world we live in, we’re West Ham and these players want to go out and play Champions League football – and do you blame them?
“Dec is no different. He will always be hailed at West Ham as a fantastic player and such a top person. But I don’t think anyone begrudges him wanting to win things. We just hope he’ll keep performing like he has been over the last month or so.
“Wherever Dec ends up, or however much someone pays for him, he’s worth every penny.
“He’s said he loves playing at West Ham, but he has got ambitions to go and play in the Champions League and win trophies. I don’t think any West Han fan can actually have an agenda over that.
“Do you blame him for having really big ambitions? Of course you don’t. If he didn’t have that drive, he probably wouldn’t be as good as he is.”
