Man United likely to have clear run at Declan Rice this summer

Man United could have an open opportunity to sign Declan Rice this summer.

Midfield, centre-back, full-back, attack. Any of these positions can be argued as Manchester United’s biggest need going into a huge summer transfer window.

I still don’t believe Erik ten Hag has any idea of just how bad of a state this club is in right now. Perhaps the chance to turn United’s fortunes around is what attracted him to the Old Trafford hot seat.

For me, defensive midfield has to be the pressing need. Time and time again I’ve watched the likes of Nemanja Matic, Scott McTominay and Fred just stand there as opposing midfielders run past them. These guys have rarely offered any sort of protection to our backline, either…

There’s no doubt a defensive-midfield stalwart would go an awfully long way to setting us back on the right track again. Enter, Declan Rice.

The Englishman has often been linked with a potential switch to the Theatre of Dreams, though for the time being, he remains a West Ham player.

Now, ESPN have perhaps given United the biggest lift yet in their potential pursuit of Rice. They’re claiming that United are likely to have a ‘clear run’ at any move to sign the 23-year-old this summer – though it remains a question as to whether the player would want to make the move.

Obviously, United cannot offer Champions League football next season. If that’s Rice’s number one aim, it doesn’t make much sense for him to leave his boyhood club this summer. Instead, the Three Lions star could choose to wait another twelve months in the hopes of a better offer…

ESPN state Rice is seen as someone who has the ‘character required to thrive’ at United, while strengthening an area of the field where Ralf Rangnick’s side have seriously struggled.

However, Rice would cost a huge fee. West Ham are ready to dig their heels in and refuse to sell unless the British transfer fee, of over £100million, is broken.

Is Rice worth that much? I’m not so sure…

Would a Man United move for Declan Rice make sense? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below.