Manchester United are now reportedly making West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice one of their top transfer targets this summer.
The England international has had another superb season at the London Stadium and it seems only a matter of time before he lands a move to a big six club.
CaughtOffside columnist Ben Jacobs has once again stated that Arsenal are the favourites for Rice’s signature this summer, in a deal that could be done for around £100million, or possibly slightly less.
Still, it seems Rice’s performance against Man Utd at the weekend has seen him shoot up to top of the Red Devils’ list of targets, according to the Sun.
The report quotes a source as saying that United are optimistic about their chances of persuading the 24-year-old to move to Old Trafford, with his friendship with fellow England teammates like Marcus Rashford and Luke Shaw possibly set to be key.
The source told the Sun: “Rice is fast emerging as United’s number one summer target.
“He completely ran the game and United’s coaching staff and scouts were all talking about him after the match.
“There’s a growing belief that Rice is interested in leaving at the end of the season and United believe they simply have to ensure he heads north and not to Arsenal or Chelsea.
“Declan is good friends with Marcus and Luke Shaw from England. Man Utd believe they can persuade Rice that his future lies with them in Manchester.”
Arsenal need a younger midfield player to replace ageing stars like Granit Xhaka, Thomas Partey and Jorginho, but United would also surely do well to land Rice as an upgrade on inconsistent performers like Scott McTominay and Fred.