Manchester United‘s recruitment squad is said to be divided on whether it is worthwhile to pursue a deal for West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice this summer.
The 24-year-old midfielder is set to leave the London Stadium in quest of Champions League action before the end of his contract with David Moyes’ side.
West Ham had previously stated that Rice is not for sale, but Moyes has now admitted that there is a “good chance” that the England international will leave the club.
Even though the former Chelsea player is free to go in 2024, West Ham are reported to be holding out for a cost of £100 million to allow him to leave in the coming weeks.
Arsenal, Bayern Munich, and Manchester United have all been widely connected with a move for Rice ahead of the 2023-24 season, with the Gunners believed to be first in line.
West Ham, on the other hand, appear to expect Manchester United to reach their nine-figure asking price before Arsenal, whose first offer – which will be submitted following Wednesday’s Europa Conference League final – is predicted to fall short.
Clubs in race to sign Declan Rice
The Red Devils are also looking to add players up front and on defence, according to The Athletic, and club officials have yet to reach an agreement on whether to pursue Rice.
According to the sources, West Ham’s past stance on a sale has caused suspicions to arise, and there is currently no evidence that the recruitment staff has changed its mind.
West Ham’s £100 million asking price, as well as Erik ten Hag’s need for a new striker and custodian, are said to be factors in Man United’s decision-making, although the club will continue to keep a careful eye on events.
Rice is thought to have accepted personal terms with Arsenal, but the Gunners will not make a move until after the Hammers’ continental final against Fiorentina, while Bayern remain interested.
Rice left Chelsea’s academy 10 years ago to join West Ham’s development ranks, and the midfielder has since scored 15 goals and assisted 13 times in 244 games for the Hammers across all competitions.
The 24-year-old has scored five goals and assisted four more in 49 appearances this season, but he is said to have rejected down three contract extensions from West Ham.
Manchester United boosted their midfield ranks last summer with the additions of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen, while Marcel Sabitzer had a hit-or-miss six-month loan stay from Bayern Munich.
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