Chelsea prepared to cash in on duo to fund move to sign Declan Rice

Chelsea are reportedly prepared to sell Conor Gallagher and Ruben Loftus-Cheek to fund a summer move for West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice.

The 24-year-old has emerged as one of the hottest properties in Europe in recent years and has attracted interest from a host of clubs.

The defensive midfielder has been speculated to secure a permanent switch away from West Ham United. With him in the final 16 months of his deal, he has emerged as a target of a host of clubs, particularly in England. Chelsea are likely to face strong competition from the likes of Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester United and Manchester City for the signature of the coveted midfielder.

A tireless and dominating presence in the middle of the park, the 39-cap England star was strongly rumoured to join the Gunners in the recently concluded winter transfer window. However, the holding midfielder's valuation of over £100 million has kept potential suitors at bay for so long.

As per reports, Chelsea have earmarked Rice as a top target for the upcoming summer transfer window and view him as a leader both on and off the pitch. The West Ham United captain has strong family roots in London and is keen to pursue UEFA Champions League action in the future. Arsenal are leading the chase to land the defensive midfielder.

Meanwhile, Graham Potter's side is prepared to listen to offers for Conor Gallagher and Ruben Loftus-Cheek. Both midfielders have been linked with permanent moves away from the Blues since last summer and have not been regulars this season.

Gallagher is contracted at Stamford Bridge until June 2025 and was linked with Newcastle United, Everton, and Crystal Palace last month. Loftus-Cheek, on the other hand, is in the final 16 months of his contract and has dropped down in the pecking order under Potter of late. The 27-year-old, who has been with Chelsea since 2004, was speculated to join AC Milan and Leicester City at one point this season.