4 talented centre-backs Chelsea could sign in the summer

3. Declan Rice

Signing Declan Rice makes perfect sense for Chelsea and Lampard.

For one, Rice is a former Chelsea youth product, now at West Ham United, so he would fit right in at the club. Growing up, he must’ve dreamt about starting for Chelsea’s first team, and he certainly idolized Lampard, the Blues legend.

He is also best friends with fellow Chelsea academy player Mason Mount, which could be a huge boost in convincing him to return to Stamford Bridge, and their relationship on the pitch would also be promising.

Rice plays as a defensive midfielder for West Ham, but Lampard wants to sign him as a centre-back. He reportedly sees the 21-year-old as a potential successor to John Terry, who led Chelsea to many major trophies.

At his young age, he is already the captain of West Ham, which speaks volumes about his leadership, talent and potential.

If Lampard is so confident in Rice’s ability, then signing him should be a priority, and he would certainly fit right in with the exciting group of youngsters already at the club.

The only issue is that West Ham are very determined to keep him, and could drive up the price as a means to dissuade Chelsea from even going near him.

However, this is where Chelsea chief Marina Granovskaia comes in, as she is an excellent negotiator and can get this deal done. Rice could lead the Blues’ defence for the next decade if he signs this summer, especially under Lampard’s guidance.

Expect him to be the #1 defensive target this summer.