Chelsea have been urged to make a move for long-term transfer target Declan Rice this summer, after completing a deal for Romelu Lukaku.
The Blues are closing in on a £98million deal to bring Belgian striker Lukaku back to west London, with the Inter Milan striker expected to make a return to Stamford Bridge, seven years after leaving Chelsea.
That would be an important signing for Thomas Tuchel and the Blues as they look to close the gap domestically on Premier League champions Manchester City, who Chelsea beat in the UEFA Champions League final.
But former Blues defender Glen Johnson has urged his old side to not stop there, adding that he feels there is another big signing that Chelsea need to try and make to boost their chances of winning the Premier League.
That is long-term target Rice, who has been linked with a return to Chelsea in recent transfer windows, having impressed with West Ham after leaving the Blues' academy.
Asked whether Chelsea should attempt to sign Rice from West Ham, Johnson told BettingOdds.com: "I think they can do with him because of the legs.
"He’s got a lot of energy, he charges around and he’s super passionate so I think he would suit the club.
"As long as he leaves West Ham on good terms then they will still love him. I left West Ham on the right terms and my relationship with the Hammers fans is very good.
"I think he would suit this current Chelsea team. Imagine the legs of him and N’Golo Kante! I’d like to see that for sure."
football.london understands that West Ham have no intentions of selling Rice this summer, with the midfielder proving to be a vital player for them last season as the Hammers secured European football via the Premier League.
Rice, who impressed for England at Euro 2020 as the Three Lions reached the final, is understood to be valued in excess of £80million by the Hammers.
