Pranav Nair
Manchester United looking at alternative options to Declan Rice
According to Claret and Hugh (h/t The Express), Manchester United could walk away from their pursuit of West Ham United star Declan Rice in the summer transfer window.
The Hammers ace is one of the best young midfielders in the league and is also making his mark for England. However, the Red Devils have two key concerns that could work against the 22-year-old.
Not only do the United chiefs believe the player is expensive but also harbour concerns regarding his lack of pace.
Rice’s performances have caught the eyes of a number of top-flight teams. However, with his contract running until 2024, the Hammers have a strong hand when it comes to negotiations.
The English international has so far made 29 top-flight appearances this season, scoring one goal and assisting another. His performances have played a key role in West Ham’s surprise push for the top four.
According to the report, West Ham will seek more than £100million for Rice’s services. While United are prepared to go big, they feel the Hammers have overplayed their hand.
Slow and steady loses the race?
United also feel the player is too slow to succeed in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s system. The Norwegian’s fast-paced counter-attack is a major reason why we catch opposition teams on the break.
The Red Devils are keeping close tabs on Rice and have also put together a shortlist of three other players. The club are on the lookout for a ‘dynamic’ player and believe that there are better options than Rice.
Solskjaer, for his part, is a fan of the player. However, United scouts do not share the same confidence.
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According to an earlier report, Rice is believed to be open to moving to United. The midfielder had earlier talked with Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw about life at the club while away on England duty.
