Despite being closely monitored by Chelsea, Declan Rice stays at West Ham. Frank Lampard is a big fan of the English midfielder, but a move was not possible.
However, we shouldn’t forget that Rice is on Manchester United’s radar since 2018. With Chelsea failing to sign the English international, it presents a unique opportunity for the Red Devils.
Rice himself believes he’s got what it takes to play in the red shirt. United legend Sir Alex Ferguson is a huge admirer of Rice too. Sir Alex’s disciple – Ole Gunnar Solskjaer would know this too.
Who is Declan Rice?
Declan Rice has been the standout player for West Ham for the past 2-3 seasons. His consistency for the Hammers is astonishing, considering the see-saw movement of the club in the PL table.
Rice is one of the best holding midfielders in the league. He also ranks in the top 10 in most tackles won in leagues across Europe.
Rice belongs to holding midfielders of the old. He is tough on the tackles and dominates his opponents. Rice shows good awareness on the pitch, allowing him to intercept balls with ease. His positioning and calmness on the pitch lets him cut of passing lanes and read the game.
He is ready to roam the pitch to receive a pass, also to give one. He is a workhorse off the ball.
Should United sign Rice?
He is exactly the player that Manchester United need.
His sheer attention towards defense will allow other midfielders to drive forward without hesitation. He will also be a big help to United’s shaky defense.
United have been leaking goals like a sieve. There is close to no command and composure at the back, the quality of the defenders is also under scrutiny. They need someone from the midfield to help them out from time to time.
Presently, United’s midfield is inclined to attack. Their contribution to the defensive side of the game in negligible, the 3rd slot in the center of the park is open for anyone who can stake a proper claim.
United’s current d-mids – Nemanja Matic and Scott McTominay are not better than Rice. Matic is getting old and McTominay cannot shield the defense when needed.
The addition of Rice would bring these areas of concern under control.
The Englishman’s age and style of play fit perfectly with the current Man United philosophy.
How can he be available for a cheap fee?
Declan Rice is valued at £80m by West Ham.
However, according to an ex-employee of West Ham, speaking to West Ham Way podcast, he told that the club has a £70m hole in their club’s financials. Club’s insider Claret & Hugh reports that David Moyes have zero transfer budget and must sell to buy.
West Ham made negligible transfer progress in the window – with a net spend of +ve €0.8m.
The London club also failed to pay installments to Frankfurt for Sebastien Haller in May. Frankfurt approached FIFA’s governing body. West Ham was found guilty and was fined another £5.2m for delaying the payments.
This suggests weak financial strength which could benefit Manchester United.
