Pranav Shahaney

Tue 7 September 2021 15:30, UK

Manchester United will look to sign West Ham midfielder Declan Rice next summer, according to a report by ESPN.

The Premier League runners-up opted against signing a defensive midfielder this summer and primarily focused on getting a winger and a centre-back.

A striker and midfielder are on the club’s transfer list next summer and Rice is among many options which will be brought down to a shortlist in the coming 12 months.

The report read, “Sources have told ESPN that a striker and a midfielder are on the list ahead of next summer with England international Rice among a number of options that will be narrowed down over the course of the next 12 months.

“It is likely West Ham would have to lower their valuation of the 22-year-old — who is under contract until 2024 – which has stood at more than £80million.”

Cannot budge

The Hammers know that Rice is hot property in the market and the four teams that were keen on signing him are either owned by oligarchs, billionaires or are state-funded.

Finances have never been the concern for them and West Ham are well aware that they’re holding on to an asset whose value is likely to appreciate in the coming years.

Even the British transfer record is higher than £80million so the Hammers are well within their rights to demand something similar.

While fans and David Moyes would be unwilling to let go of Rice, they know that the club is run as a business and that he will be sold at the right price.

The 22-year-old, labelled “excellent” by Alan Shearer on BBC MOTD, has thus far, not forced a move away or downed tools at the club which showcases his professional attitude.

Hopefully, he puts in at least another good year of solid performances for the Hammers.

In other West Ham news, ‘A club insider told…’ – Report details update on Hammers financial dispute with PL club

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