Peter Crouch: Signing Rice will make Man Utd arguably strongest PL team
West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice has been frequently linked with Manchester United, and Peter Crouch has urged them to land him.
The England international, 22, is one of the best players in his position in the Premier League, and he has already established himself as a regular for the Three Lions.
With Man Utd struggling to prove their title credentials so far this term, Crouch reckons landing the Hammers ace could make all the difference going forward.
The former Liverpool striker told Sportsmail: “Solskjaer will want a midfielder who can link the different units and act as a stable base when the ball is turned over, and every great team needs a defensively-minded man capable of progressing the ball.
“Xabi Alonso was a perfect example during my time at Liverpool. Put Declan Rice or Kalvin Phillips in there — spending another huge amount on a new signing — and it arguably becomes the strongest group in the league.
“That is why it is baffling, with just a central midfielder lacking, that we do not really believe — not when pressed — they can go on and win this title. It is hard to put your finger on, because one player should not define a team’s destiny to such a degree.”
Game changer
West Ham slapped an asking price of £100million on Rice in the summer, dissuading the likes of Chelsea, Manchester City and Man Utd from making any serious move.
While it can be argued that the Blues and Pep Guardiola’s side are not in dire need of a Rice, the same cannot be said of the Red Devils.
Adding the Hammers academy graduate to that team will boost their chances of winning the title, and his performances for David Moyes’ side this term have been mind-blowing.
The midfielder has also added goals to his game, and there is no denying that he is an upgrade on both Fred and Scott McTominay.
West Ham will not be looking to lose one of their best players anytime soon, though, and they are in a commanding position as he still has three years left on his contract.
While they are playing in the Europa League, they need to be playing in Europe again next term to have a chance of holding on to him.
With Champions League football and the chance to challenge for regular silverware available at Old Trafford, Rice could be tempted to leave the London Stadium soon, especially if Man Utd are ready to meet his demands and those of the Irons.
In other West Ham news, the Hammers want to sign English sensation with 18 goals/assists in 20/21.
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