Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has refused to rule out a move for Declan Rice.

The West Ham United midfielder is in hot demand this summer as he looks to make the biggest move of his career.

Rice wants to win trophies and play in the Champions League, which are ambitions Newcastle could match next season.

Asked about Rice by reporters, Howe stated: “That is a difficult question to answer.

“We are trying to build the best squad we can. I think a lot will probably depend on what competitions we are playing in next year, as to what we can and can't do."

“I think we will always try to gauge it on every situation," added Howe.

“Our strategy last summer was to try and find quality players for the positions that we needed, not to bring in a host of players who don't necessarily improve our starting XI or squad.

“I don't think our strategy will change. We want elite players because we have an elite squad. If we do add anyone in, they have to be better than the players we have."