West Ham are looking to offer midfielder Declan Rice an improved contract, according to Ian McGarry of the Transfer Window Podcast.

The 21-year-old’s current deal already runs until 2024, with an option for a further year, so the goal of negotiations will be to reward the player with a better salary and to reaffirm the England international’s commitment to the club.

Chelsea did not make their expected move for Rice before the transfer window closed earlier this month but manager Frank Lampard is still believed to be keen on adding the player to his squad.

The Hammers will, therefore, be hoping to tie down the club’s vice-captain to a new deal before the turn of the year so that, by the next transfer window, they will be in a strong position to turn down any potential bids for Rice.

If the midfielder does sign on the dotted line, it would make things very difficult for Chelsea, who spent over £220m on seven new signings before the start of the campaign.