Former West Ham and Liverpool right-back Glen Johnson says Declan Rice will be tempted by a move away from the London Stadium.

Johnson, who left the Hammers for Chelsea, claims that the lure of winning trophies will be a key factor if the midfielder does want a transfer:

“Any good player is going to have the big teams crawling after them for sure, and if he wants to get the move, then performing for West Ham is what’s going to make that happen. So I think if he just keeps doing what he’s doing, then the option will be there and it’s going to be up to him.”

“But as we all know, when the biggest teams in the world come calling, it’s hard. It’s hard for the club, for one, to turn down the money, which we know will be a decent amount. And then it’s also hard for the player to not want to be playing in the Champions League and fighting for titles.”

Chelsea, Manchester United and Manchester City are believed to be the main contenders for Rice’s signature but, even if the 22-year-old is interested in leaving, West Ham will do all they can to keep him at the club.

The Irons value the player in excess of £100m and it is difficult to see any team paying that sort of figure for him currently. Johnson also mentions the midfielder’s interest in playing Champions League football but, after a great start to the season, West Ham could realistically be playing in the competition next season anyway. Fans will be hoping that Rice’s head won’t be turned as Johnson suggests it will be.