Incoming Chelseas new manager, Mauricio Pochettino, wants the club to sign Arsenal target, Declan Rice, this summer, according to 90min.
Rice, who currently plays for West Ham United, remains a target for Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United this summer.
Pochettino is keen to work with the 24yearold England World Cup star next season.
The former Paris SaintGermain coach is due to sign his contract at Stamford Bridge in the coming days and has already had plenty of opportunities to discuss his plans for the upcoming summer transfer window, including a desire to see midfielder Mason Mount handed a new contract.
During those talks, the Chelsea boards longstanding interest in Rice was put to Pochettino and the Argentine would be keen to lure the midfielder to the west London club.
Chelsea are looking to sign a new midfielder this summer to bolster their midfielder while they continue to push for a contract extension for NGolo Kante.
However, there are doubts over the futures of Mateo Kovacic, Conor Gallagher and Ruben LoftusCheek, and it is understood that strengthening in midfield is a key part of Pochettinos vision for the Stamford Bridge club.