Declan Rice explains Jude Bellingham interest as Chelsea plot transfer amid Liverpool challenge

Declan Rice has clarified the ongoing speculation around Jude Bellingham's rumored transfer to Chelsea.

Declan Rice explains why Chelsea is interested in Jude Bellingham, one of Europe's most sought-after players. Since the 19-year-old initially established himself at Birmingham City, he has been frequently linked with a move to the Premier League.

The Blues have a long-term interest in Bellingham, according to football.london. West Londoners kept an eye on the England international while he was still at the academy, but when they did little to further their interest, Borussia Dortmund pounced and brought the young star to the Signal Iduna Park.

The midfielder, whose deal with the Bundesliga's biggest clubs expires in 2025, played the full 90 minutes in each of the Three Lions' matches in the UEFA Nations League and personally assisted in a goal.Despite his and Rice's standout performances as England's pivot, Gareth Southgate's team was demoted from League A.

And after developing a closer relationship with Bellingham in midfield, the West Ham player praised the Chelsea transfer target. Rice spoke after England and Germany's 3-3 draw, as reported by The Mirror: "I doubt I've ever seen a 19-year-old perform as well as him.

"I frequently observe 19-year-olds, whether they are in clubs or are located all over the world or the nation. It is difficult to have everything. and I believe he possesses that."

Rice went on to describe Bellingham's remarkable physical and mental qualities, which have given him a significant advantage in the early phases of his career. Captain of the Hammers said: "He is a man and is 19 years old, but he has a body of a 28-year-old.

He exhibits personality and character, thinks and plays like a guy. In my career, I've been around and participated in a great deal more games than he has, but even at the age of 19, it's obvious what he adds to the squad in terms of vitality.

He continued, "He can play as a holding role, as an eight, or as a 10." "When he represents Dortmund, you can tell that he is a guy.

"In general, a 19-year-old is afraid to speak to the referee, but he is constantly in the referee's face, demanding answers and decisions, and he frequently leaves himself on the field. He exerts a lot of pressure on the field.

Being able to play next to him is a privilege because we encourage each other.

Jude and I are developing a bond every time we play, and I tell him, "You go bomb on and do your offensive stuff, and I'll sit here and protect for you. We're connecting well, and it's fun to play with him.

Bellingham, according to Rice, is the team of the future for English football. He stated: "I hope he keeps doing well. For the next 15 years, he will be the face of English football."

The Athletic claims that Bellingham has drawn interest from Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, and Real Madrid. Dortmund wants to keep the young player, who is worth €150 million (£131 million), according to the newspaper. It is rumored that Bellingham's contract does not contain a release clause that might be invoked.