David Moyes has revealed he’d ask for Billy Gilmour in exchange for Declan Rice if Chelsea come knocking for the midfielder this summer.
The Blues have been linked with the 21-year-old as they look to improve their midfield ranks and reunite him with former teammate Mason Mount.
With West Ham manager Moyes all-but resigned to losing his midfielder in the summer, the ex-Manchester United and Everton boss has joked he is tempted to ask for Gilmour in return.
Moyes told the BBC: “The one [Scottish player] who if I could sign tomorrow I would is Billy Gilmour after his opening performances for Chelsea.
Thomas Partey ‘makes it clear’ he wants Arsenal move
La Liga teams to return to training following coronavirus outbreak
“He’s looked like a seasoned pro, he’s looked like somebody who’s hungry, who’s in love with the game.
“I was laughing because I keep getting told that Chelsea want Declan Rice. So I thought well I might just decide I want Billy Gilmour and see how it goes.”
Billy Gilmour burst on to the scene during Chelsea’s 2-0 FA Cup victory over Liverpool when he belied his years to dominate in the middle of the park.
The Hammers head coach went on to say he believes the midfielder is the absolute definition of a throwback Scotland international.
Moyes added: “He’s typical of what my memories are of what Scottish players were like going back many, many years.
“We were always good players, really talented football players…
“At the moment Billy Gilmour in the short period I’ve seen him has looked like that all day long.
“We need to start getting a Scottish national team that gives us some hope but he’s certainly a really talented looking player.”
