West Ham midfielder Declan Rice has been interacting with Crystal Palace ace Patrick van Aanholt on Instagram.
The 22-year-old, who has recently returned from injury, posted an image on the social media application wearing an orange hoody.
Almost immediately Van Aanholt was in the replies, pointing out that England star Rice clearly had an admiration for the colour – the same as the Netherlands national team strip.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/CPJSeEUpOV6/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Rice was quick to reply, further referencing the summer and its immediacy – perhaps with a friendly underlying meaning.
Whilst on the face of matters this is simply two professionals chatting on social media – eluding to facing each other in the upcoming Euro 2020 competition.
However, with David Moyes seemingly steadfast on signing a left-back in the near future to offer support for Aaron Cresswell – the Dutchman could just fit the bill.
Out of contract at the end of the season and with no sign of a new deal on the horizon, the 30-year-old would be a great fit for the Hammers without delving into the transfer coffers.
Capped 13 times by Holland, the full-back has made 22 appearances across all competitions this season for Palace.
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Signing the £7.2million valued Van Aanholt for free this summer would have to be regarded as an astute piece of business by the Irons hierarchy.
Albeit perhaps not the younger model who could be regarded as the long-term Cresswell replacement, between the two they could share the workload more evenly and thus prolong both their careers.
Recruiting squad strengthening options for as little expenditure as possible also frees up cash to spend on an area that can’t afford to be a bargain buy – a striker.
