Liverpool have been handed a potentially significant boost in their pursuit of West Ham midfielder Declan Rice.

What's the story?

The Reds have been linked with a move for the 22-year-old in recent months, and he's now reportedly "increasingly open" to the idea of a move away from the London Stadium this summer, according to Eurosport.

However, the report claims that Premier League rivals Chelsea are leading the likes of Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United in the race for Rice's signature, so the Reds' director of football Michael Edwards may have to work some magic in the transfer market in order to secure his services.

Klopp would love him

Gini Wijnaldum's exit is set to leave a substantial hole in Liverpool's engine room next season, and the Anfield outfit have been credited with an interest in multiple replacements.

After an impressive 2020/21 campaign, the Reds' apparent interest in Rice is easy to understand. The England international made 35 appearances for David Moyes' side last term, playing a pivotal part in their magnificent sixth-placed finish.

His tireless running, tactical discipline and unwavering commitment to the cause would make him an ideal signing for Klopp's unique style, and the German would surely love to bring him to Merseyside over the coming months.

Nevertheless, a deal may be tricky for Liverpool to execute. Moyes has previously gone on record stating the dynamic midfielder is worth "far more" than £100m, and with three years left to run on his current contract, the Hammers are in no need to sell their prized asset.

If the 19-time champions can shift several of their fringe players, though, a move for Rice may well be on the cards. He was once dubbed a "future England captain" by journalist Henry Winter, and his solid displays for England during Euro 2020 have done that claim no harm.

It remains to be seen whether any of the Premier League's 'Big Six' make a move for Rice this summer, but he could be an ideal successor to Wijnaldum at Liverpool, and many of the club's supporters will surely be hoping that Edwards can get this deal over the line.

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