Varun Pai
Declan Rice ready to sign new contract at West Ham amidst links to Manchester United
According to 90min.com (h/t Proven Quality), Declan Rice is open to accepting a new deal at West Ham United amidst interest from Manchester United.
The central midfielder has been a key figure at the club ever since he joined the youth academy in 2013. Last season alone, Rice made 35 appearances in all competitions for the Hammers, including featuring 32 times in the Premier League.
The 22-year-old played in the centre of the pitch and helped the club secure a 6th place finish in the League table, which meant that West Ham would be playing European football this season. The youngster’s performances also led to him being selected in the England squad for the Euros as he helped the Three Lions reach the final of the competition.
However, Rice has now set his ‘sights’ on leaving the East London outfit next summer, with Manchester United one of four clubs said to be keen on adding the player to their ranks.
West Ham, in turn, are aiming to offer the Englishman a new contract for his brilliant performances last season. The 22-year-old is now said to be willing to accept the contract extension, provided that the Hammers include a release clause, according to 90min.com (h/t Proven Quality)
A release clause would entail any interested club to pay the amount stated in the release clause and sign the Englishman. This would be a great situation for United, as they could simply pay the release clause stated in his new contract and get a deal over the line for the player next summer.
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Given that Paul Pogba could leave Old Trafford on a free transfer next summer and Nemanja Matic will be in the final year of his contract next year, Rice could boost United’s midfield options.
However, it remains to be seen if the Red Devils do manage to sign the midfielder as Chelsea, Manchester City & Liverpool are also ‘keeping tabs’ on signing the 22-year-old.
