Manchester City want Declan Rice to replace Fernandinho
Manchester City are reportedly going to be in hot pursuit of West Ham midfielder Declan Rice next summer.
According to The Sun, Rice is also the primary target of Manchester United and now their arch-rivals City will join the race to secure his services in 2022.
They've earmarked him to walk into the shoes of the long-serving anchor man Fernandinho, who joined the club way back in 2013.
Bidding war incoming?
The Hammers retaining Declan Rice this summer was a masterstroke as there was a growing interest in his services.
Rivals Chelsea were also hot on his heels, but having signed Saul, they may look to buy him permanently in the summer, which would put them out of the race.
We also do not see Liverpool managing to outbid the likes of the two Manchester clubs, so it will be down to yet another Manchester derby in the transfer window.
Rice does see himself moving to a bigger club eventually and next summer could be the time he actually jumps ship.
The Hammers are in a very solid position as they have him tied down to a long-term deal and could ensure the bidding starts close to the £100million mark they value him at.
It remains to be seen where he ends up eventually and whether or not he breaks the British transfer record.
In other West Ham news, David Moyes likely to hand 'Outstanding' Hammers player first start v Zagreb - Athletic journo