Michael Owen has urged Liverpool to sign West Ham United captain Declan Rice if they can’t seal a deal for Jude Bellingham this summer.
It’s no secret that Jurgen Klopp is looking to bolster his midfield and Bellingham has long been considered as his primary target.
With Liverpool now priced out of signing the Borussia Dortmund star, they could look to bring in Rice as an alternative. However, they will face competition for his signature.
As reported by Football365, the Reds still have a ‘slim hope’ they can sign Bellingham. But, with a valuation of £130m, a summer transfer is looking unlikely.
Indeed, Real Madrid are currently thought to be the firm favourites to sign the England international, who may well pay Dortmund’s asking price.
As mentioned, new midfielders is a priority for Klopp given the likes of James Milner, Jordan Henderson and Fabinho are all past their prime.
Now, they are casting their eye over potential Bellingham alternatives. Rennes centre-mid Lovro Mejer, for example, has recently emerged as a potential target.
The he likes of Ryan Gravenberch, Gabri Veiga and Romeo Lavia are all believed to have been discussed by the Liverpool hierarchy, too.
However, Rice could prove to be a fantastic option. He is young, has ample experience in the Premier League and has proven recently he can offer something going forward, as well as defensively.
One man who thinks the Reds should sign Rice is Owen. Although, he has first urged Klopp and co to do ‘everything they can’ to bring in Bellingham.
“Do everything you can to get Jude Bellingham,” said Owen.
“Everything you can. It might not be (realistic). But whatever you do, go and get the best.
“Go and get the next best (if Bellingham signs for Real Madrid). Go and get Declan Rice.”
Since breaking into the West Ham first team in 2017, Rice has made 238 appearances overall, scoring 14 goals and making 13 assists in the process.
In that time, the 24-year-old has become a regular in Gareth Southgate’s England squad, so there is no doubting his quality.
However, a move for Rice will not be simple either, given the widespread interest in him. Arsenal are currently the favourites to sign him, but Newcastle also have him on their radar.
So, even if Klopp agrees with Owen, the Reds may find it difficult to sign Rice. Nevertheless, it would be interesting to see him in a Liverpool shirt next season.
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