Manuel Pellegrini says it will come down to a 'matter of price' as to whether or not Declan Rice stays put at West Ham.
The midfielder, 20, signed a new deal through until 2024 in December, and made his England debut last week following an association switch from Ireland.
Having impressed for both club and country this season, Rice is bound to court glances from some of the Premier League's 'big six'.
Standard Sport understands that Manchester City have already considered the Londoner as a midfield successor to Fernandinho, though there has been no suggestion of an imminent move by the champions.
Rice, who graduated from the West Ham academy having been released by Chelsea at 14, has been tipped as a future Hammers captain.
However, Pellegrini conceded that if a deal suits all involved, there is little the club can do to stop his progression.
"In that case, as always, it is just a matter of price," Pellegrini said.
"There are big teams who decide to pay an important amount of money: sure, if it is a good deal for the club and the player and improves his career then we can do it. But I don't know nothing about that yet."
Asked whether or not Rice's impressive displays for England came as a shock, Pellegrini said: "Surprised? No.
"I know Declan Rice, I have said before that he is a young player, just 20 years old, but his mind is of an adult player.
"He never feels pressure playing here or with the national squad. I was absolutely sure his level of performance would be exactly the same. He it a top, top player.
"He must continue doing exactly what he is doing now, to work in the same way, have the same mentality. He knows he must improve, that is why he is always listening and learning so as a player, in the way he plays more games with better games of course he will continue improving."
Rice will be back in club action this weekend as West Ham look to extend their London Stadium winning run to four as Everton visit.
A 3-1 win at Goodison Park brought about Pellegrini's first Premier League victory as West Ham manager. He will be without Samir Nasri, who is struggling with a calf injury.
