Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing West Ham United captain Declan Rice, a target for Arsenal.
According to a report from Football Insider, Manchester United are hoping to steal a march on Arsenal for 24-year-old England international Declan Rice. But the West Ham United captain has indicated his desire to stay in London even after leaving the Hammers. However, that has not deterred Manchester United from keeping tabs on him.
Rice wants to join a club in the Champions League and is expected to move on at the end of the season. West Ham are currently involved in the relegation battle, and a player of Rice’s talent deserves to play at a higher level.
The 24-year-old is one of the best defensive midfielders in the country. And he would be an exceptional addition to the Manchester United midfield. Rice would be a major upgrade on players like Scott McTominay and could be the ideal partner for Brazilian international Casemiro.
The Red Devils will have seen the effects of bringing in competent midfielders. The likes of Christian Eriksen and Casemiro have transformed Manchester United this season. And they have already won the League Cup and are competing to win three more trophies this season.
Rice has the potential to help them challenge for the Premier League and the Champions League next season. The Red Devils certainly have the resources to pay big money for him as well. The midfielder’s contract will be up in the summer of 2024, and he should be available for a lot less than his initial value of £150 million.
Meanwhile, Arsenal are desperate for midfielders as well, and they tried to sign Moises Caicedo during the January transfer window. The Gunners need to bring in a quality defensive midfielder as well and Rice would be an exceptional acquisition.
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The midfielder’s desire to remain in London could be a huge boost for the Gunners. Furthermore, Arsenal are well-placed to win the Premier League title this season, and that could give them an edge in the transfer race. The Premier League champions will certainly be an attractive destination for players.