West Ham could spend Declan Rice on £85m duo but cost is an issue

League champions West Ham want to agree a reduced fee for Leicester City winger Harvey Barnes and Ajax midfielder Edson Alvarez, a duo worth £85million, according to reports.

Although Declan Rice’s departure now feels like a matter of when rather than if – boss David Sullivan confirmed to talkSPORT that the talismanic captain is likely to say goodbye this summer – the good news is David Moyer Stan should soon have an almighty wad of cash burning a hole in his back pocket.

Finding a replacement for West Ham’s first European Cup-winning captain since the legendary Bobby Moore is easier said than done.

However, Ederson Alvarez will at least provide a similar level of balance, strength and presence.

Declan Rice out, Ederson Alvarez at West Ham?

The 6ft 4in Mexico international made his name in Central America as a centre-back but has thrived in Ajax’s deep midfield role.

The Guardian has backed BILD’s claim that West Ham will battle Dortmund, who are set to lose their England international; Jude Bellingham is on his way to Real Madrid.

Ajax want £45m.

However, West Ham hope to get Alvarez’s services for a lower price. Their hopes may have been boosted as the unscrupulous enforcers openly tried to force their way out of the Johan Cruyff Arena.

Alvarez went on strike last summer in an attempt to force a move to Chelsea. Speaking to Voetbal International, the one-time Celtic target has again made no secret of his desire to move on.

“My mission here is almost done,” Alvarez explained. “I’ve had a great time here over the past four years and the club still feels like home. But you will understand that I have achieved a lot here. I have won a lot of awards with Ajax.

“As a top athlete, it feels good to take on a new challenge at a certain point, in a different environment. A different game.”

Leicester’s Harvey Barnes has not been so outspoken.

He is also likely to consider a move after the Foxes were relegated despite beating Moyes’ side on the last day of last month. According to the Guardian, Leicester City hope to bring in £40 million.

As things stand, West Ham appear to be willing to pay £10m.