West Ham midfielder Declan Rice is once again being targeted for a move away from the London Stadium.
The 22-year-old has been perennially linked with a transfer away from the Hammers with top Premier League clubs reportedly interested in the England ace.
Chelsea were believed to be the main protagonist behind a move for Rice, although the departure of Frank Lampard has seemingly cooled the path across London.
Now, according to a report from The Mirror, as cited by Football Transfers on Twitter, Manchester United could be set to make a late play for the 24-cap man.
Twitter:
Manchester United are set to step up their pursuit of Declan Rice
by offering Jesse Lingard
The report cites Andy Mitten on the Talk of the Devils Podcast claiming the Irons’ owners could be tempted by a player plus cash move for Rice.
Valued at over £100million by manager David Moyes, the combative midfielder has played every minute in the first two Premier League games this season.
READ WEST HAM VERDICT
Holding a market value of £63million and under contract until 2024 (Transfermarkt), West Ham certainly hold all the power when it comes to Rice’s future or otherwise in east London.
Given all the progress made under David Moyes in the last 12 months, allowing their prized asset to leave must be considered as the only viable option remaining.
However, a desire to sign Jesse Lingard certainly remains and the club would likely be unwilling to spark a feud with their current contract rebel.
With just a week remaining in the current transfer window it seems almost impossible that any deal of this magnitude will be resolved this month, meaning Rice’s future may have to wait until January at the earliest for a resolution.
