Newcastle United have experienced a phenomenal start to their Premier League season and there is no doubt they will want to continue their form in the second half the season, with the potential of strengthening their team even further in January as a new transfer target is revealed.

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According to West Ham United insiders Claret & Hugh, Declan Rice could emerge as a potential target for the Magpies.

As per the report, the northeast giants believe Rice could be a cornerstone in their project at the club and Hammers officials believe that they could take their chances to sign the player if their form continues in the Premier League.

Imagine him & Bruno G

There is no doubt that Rice is one of the hottest English prospects at the moment and the attention surrounding the talented midfielder will surely only grow as he is set to play a starring role in the centre of the pitch for England in the World Cup this month.

Indeed, Newcastle will be in a great position to compete for the players signature should he become available to sign over the coming months despite Manchester United, Chelsea and Manchester City all reportedly interested in acquiring Rice's services too, thanks to their ambitious project at St James' Park and league position.

The Magpies have only suffered one defeat in their Premier League campaign and are currently 3rd in the table matching Man City for the best defensive record in the league so far after 15 outings and Eddie Howe will be desperate for his team to continue their dominance to guarantee a Champions League spot ahead of schedule.

As a result, the signing of Rice would be amazing for the club and when you consider his attributes in the central third it is clear he would make a fantastic partner for stand-out performer Bruno Guimaraes.

Over 15 league appearances, the £150m ace - who was once hailed "phenomenal" by Marlon Harewood - has scored one goal, registered two assists and created two big chances, as well as averaging 1.3 key passes, 1.6 interceptions, 2.4 tackles and 1.3 clearances per game, via Sofascore.

Rice also ranks second for dribbles, second in pass interceptions in the opponent's half and 10th in passes completed into the final third in the entirety of the Premier League.

The England international's clear defensive talents and work ethic in the centre of the pitch can perfectly complement Bruno Guimaraes' playmaking and attacking skills that the Brazilian has displayed since joining Newcastle in January.

With that being said, the signing of Rice would be the perfect move for the Magpies as he could become an incredibly valuable asset offering quality and longevity on Tyneside for years to come.