West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice has played down the chances of leaving the club this summer, amid speculation regarding his future.
The 20-year-old made his England debut in the recent international break and has been linked with a move to Manchester City, where it is reported he is seen as a potential heir to Fernandinho’s role in the middle of the park, while he has also been linked with Manchester United.
Rumours regarding his future increased in the build-up to the return of the Premier League this weekend as Manuel Pellegrini admitted he could allow Rice to leave if a significant offer landed on his lap this summer.
However, Rice himself has played down the chances of leaving West Ham this summer and stated he is happy in his current environment.
Man City target Declan Rice could be sold this summer admits Manuel Pellegrini
“I’m happy. I’m playing week in week out. I have a special connection with the fans. It’s unbelievable [the London Stadium]. I love every minute of being at West Ham,” he told BT Sport.
“Being compared to players, being linked to other teams, I don’t really take any of it in to be honest. If you think about it too much you get caught up in it.
“I’m only 20, you’ve got your whole career ahead of you. I’m just focused on playing for West Ham and playing with a smile on my face and enjoying it.”
Since making his full Premier League debut at the start of last season, Rice has accumulated over 50 league appearances for the Hammers and is widely regarded to be one of the best young talents in English football.
