West Ham told to cash in on Rice by former player, who says he would shine at Arsenal

The former Hammers star also believes that the England international could 'walk into any team' as interest in his signature picks up.

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Rice has proved to be one of West Ham's most important players in recent seasons, with top sides setting their sights on a move.

His contract at the east London outfit expires next summer, so Sheringham believes it's time for the club to sell their prized asset.

When asked by Andy Goldstein on talkSPORT Drive if West Ham should cash in this summer, he said: "I think you've got to.

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"For a club like West Ham, if you think you hold onto him for another season and you don't get anything for him, to get like £60-80million… I'd put him around that figure.

"If he had three years on his contract you'd probably have to pay £120million to get him out, but he hasn't.

"He's stayed at West Ham, he's been very loyal but I think this summer would probably be the time when they want to cash in and get that £70million for him so they can help get other players in."

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Premier League leaders Arsenal are one of the sides linked with a move for Rice, and Sheringham believes he would add a lot of quality to the Gunners.

"He can go anywhere, wherever he goes he's going to make that team a better team," he added.

"Maybe Casemiro is in that role at Manchester United so perhaps they don't need him, but he would definitely make Arsenal a better team.

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"I don't like to say it but they're already good enough this season, and I don't want to see Declan go there because he will make them a better team. He could walk into any team."

Rice has made 229 appearances for West Ham, scoring 12 goals and assisting a further 13 from central midfield.

However, he could be approaching the end of his time at the club, with the 24-year-old ready to take the next step in his career.