Pranav Nair
Manchester United may be priced out of a move for Declan Rice
According to The Express, Manchester United are still interested in West Ham United’s ace midfielder Declan Rice heading into the summer transfer window.
The 22-year-old is one of England’s top young players. He was a key component of David Moyes’ side that finished sixth this season, earning themselves a spot in Europe for 2021/22.
Rice’s versatility allows him to thrive not just as a defensive midfielder but also at centre-back. This would be an invaluable asset for United, who have struggled defensively.
However, we may be forced to walk away from making an offer because of the youngster’s massive asking price. The Red Devils are keen to go big on a striker and centre-back, making a deal for Rice difficult.
David Moyes had admitted earlier this month that Rice would cost upwards of £100m. This will not just comfortably break our transfer record but also put a severe strain on our transfer kitty.
The Red Devils could however lower that price by offering Jesse Lingard in exchange. The 28-year-old has enjoyed a short yet fruitful spell on loan with the Hammers and has left a profound impression on Moyes.
The Europa League final showed that United need to strengthen certain areas of their squad this summer. While Rice would be a quality addition, signing him is easier said than done.
West Ham had already admitted that they are not willing to entertain any thoughts of a deal involving Lingard. This considerably lowers United’s leverage when it comes to making an offer.
Whether we can find a way around it remains to be seen.
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Ole Gunnar Solskjaer believes signing Rice will help transform United into title challengers. While that may certainly be the case, the path to obtaining him is not straightforward, to say the least.
