Chelsea are still considering whether to make a move for West Ham midfielder Declan Rice this summer, according to journalist Dean Jones.

Despite the Hammers slapping a £150m price tag on the 23-year-old, Jones thinks that Rice would still fall within Chelsea’s transfer budget:

“On the back of the takeover getting the green light and talk of a £200m war chest, let’s not discount the possibility that Chelsea go back for Declan Rice. This Chelsea squad needs a revamp, players will leave, but Rice could be such a big asset and I’m told his name is still discussed as a potential signing.”

While Chelsea may well be discussing Rice as an option, Jones is being rather speculative in terms of suggesting that the Blues can still afford him.

That £200m budget is meant to cover purchases for a number of other players, including multiple centre-backs, a left wingback and a left-sided wide forward. It doesn’t look as though much will be left to meet Rice’s asking price.

Other reports have suggested that Rice has already decided to remain at the London Stadium for another year anyway. Hopefully, in that time, West Ham can do enough to persuade him to stay for longer by making a challenge for the top four.