West Ham are set to add two centre backs to their ranks this summer, and with the Hammers leadership stalling over offering Declan Rice a new contract, should Everton swoop for the breakout star?

What's the word?

West Ham officially unveiled the signing of Issa Diop on Tuesday, and the Hammers have been strongly linked with a move for Swansea’s Alfie Mawson.

Manuel Pellegrini is desperate to bring in some top talent, as the Chilean manager looks to get his new side surging up the table after their disappointing season.

While the Hammers are looking impressive in the transfer market, their decisiveness could be bad news for Rice.

The 19 year-old had an incredible breakout season last year, but has yet to sign a new contract, something the Toffees should definitely capitalise on.

Able to play as a centre back or defensive midfielder, both areas the Hammers are looking to strengthen, his playing time could take a severe hit if all their moves go through.

Everton meanwhile are looking to trim their wage bill, so it would be no surprise to see them target younger players this summer. With Rice entering the last 12 months of his contract, the fee would not be astronomical, so Marco Silva should absolutely try and convince the versatile youngster to ply his trade up north.

Where would he fit?

The 19 year-old, valued at £9m by Transfermarkt, played mostly as a centre back for the Hammers, but also has the technical and physical traits needed to play that holding midfield role for Silva’s 4-3-3 at Everton.

The Portuguese tactician wants a good passer as well as the strength and intelligence to break up play at the base of his midfield trio, and Rice has the potential to be fantastic at all three.

The West Ham fan favourite was crowned man of the match on his international debut earlier this year, and possesses the type of composure and leadership that will quickly endear him to the fans on Merseyside, just as it has done in East London.

Could it happen?

It will be a difficult task to lure Rice away from a club he loves so much, but the promise of guaranteed playing time under a young, exciting manager could just do it.

West Ham fans won’t want to believe their young star would leave, but with the owners seemingly stalling over offering him the deal he wants, it would be tough to turn down if another Premier League club came calling with an enticing offer.

So, Everton fans, do you think you could lure Rice away from West Ham? Would he be a good signing? Let us know by voting in the poll below…