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Declan Rice in Chelsea transfer hint as West Ham midfielder admits he'd 'love to play with' his best pal Mason Mount at club level again after coming through the academy together

Mason Mount could be the key to Chelsea securing West Ham talent Declan Rice this summer, with the midfielder admitting he wants to play with the Blues youngster again.

The 21-year-olds become close friends while rising through Chelsea's academy together, before Rice was plucked by the Hammers at 16.

Both men have stayed close as Rice made his Premier League breakthrough in the 2017-18 campaign before Mount burst into Blues XI under Frank Lampard this season.

Declan Rice has admitted his desire to play alongside best mate Mason Mount once more

Declan Rice has admitted his desire to play alongside best mate Mason Mount once more

The pair rose through Chelsea's academy together and have remained close friends since

The pair rose through Chelsea's academy together and have remained close friends since

Rice is set to be a summer target for Chelsea, and Mount could be a huge boost to the deal

Rice will be a target for many top clubs this summer, and his exit will surely be confirmed if David Moyes' side are relegated - as they hover above the drop only through goal difference.