Varun Pai
Manchester United are not too keen on orchestrating a move for West Ham United star Declan Rice next summer
According to the information provided by sources to ESPN, Manchester United scouts have been ‘instructed’ to look at alternatives to West Ham United ace Declan Rice over a potential move next summer.
The 22-year-old has been a rock in the centre of the pitch for West Ham in recent seasons. His midfield performances for the Hammers last season warranted a place in Gareth Southgate’s England this summer as Rice played an integral role in helping the Three Lions reach the country’s first major tournament final since 1966.
United, who already possess the likes of Paul Pogba, Bruno Fernandes, Fred, Scott McTominay, Donny van de Beek, and Nemanja Matic, could add another player to the midfield line next season.
Declan Rice, however, may not be a viable option for that role anymore as the Old Trafford outfit’s recruitment team is not yet ‘convinced’ by the Englishman’s abilities.
There is said to be a doubt whether the 22-year-old would compliment Scott McTominay or merely replicate what the Scotsman is already doing in midfield for the Red Devils.
Moreover, the issue is also with the East London club’s valuation of the midfielder. West Ham are ‘expected’ to value the youngster at around £80-90million, which is not ideal for the Manchester-based club.
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Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is understood to remain a keen admirer of the Chelsea youth product. However, given how much it will take to fetch him, United are said to believe that there are just as good if not better options outside the Premier League.
The Old Trafford outfit are said to be keen on signing a central midfielder next summer while also pursuing a deal for Bundesliga sensation Erling Haaland. Thus, while Rice has not been completely ruled out of a move to United, he is said to be one of the options the club would take a look at next summer.
