According to Jacob Steinberg from The Guardian, Manchester United look set to rival Arsenal in their pursuit of West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice. The England international looks set to depart the London Stadium this summer after manager David Moyes admitted his captain could leave the club.
Manchester and Arsenal Set to Rival Each Other for Declan Rice Signature
Manchester United planning move for Declan Rice this summer. Arsenal have put in a lot of groundwork but they now face competition from United for the West Ham midfielder https://t.co/5OsBZtEUP3
— Jacob Steinberg (@JacobSteinberg) May 12, 2023
Declan Rice Set to Depart West Ham United
Rice looks likely to depart West Ham this summer, according to the report from The Guardian. The Englishman has attracted interest from Arsenal, who have put in a lot of groundwork in their pursuit of the midfielder. Despite the interest from United and long-term interest from Chelsea, reports suggest Arsenal will be the most likely destination for the West Ham captain. It appears that the 24-year-old midfielder described as “world-class” is interested in playing for Mikel Arteta.
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West Ham are desperate to keep Rice, who reportedly earns £ 62k per week for one more season, but it appears they are fighting a battle they cannot win, with Rice’s contract set to expire at the end of next season. There is an option of an extra year, and it seems he has no intention of staying due to his desire to play in the Champions League. The London Stadium side are nearing safety and are in the semi-final of the Conference League. Winning a trophy would seemingly be a great way for him to depart the club.
What Qualities Rice Brings
Rice would bring tenacity to any team he joins. He will never shy out of a tackle and relishes the physical side of the game. He is brilliant at reading danger and breaking up opposition attacks. The Englishman is also adept at carrying the ball from one end of the pitch to the other, using his physicality to shrug off opposition tackles.
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Wherever Rice will end up next season, it seems almost certain he will leave West Ham. If it is Arsenal, Manchester United or another club, they will be signing a midfielder capable of improving any club.