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Declan Rice is flying right now. His team West Ham United are 5th in the Premier League and most weeks he's their captain and best player. He was also instrumental in England's Euros final run in the summer.
On current form, he's probably the best player in his position in England and among the best in the world. So, understandably, a lot of big clubs are after him. Declan also recently spoke in a Sky Sports interview with Gary Neville and said that he doesn't want to end his career trophyless. He also mentioned that he wants to compete for the biggest trophies. Hence, it won't be a surprise if he does move in the summer.
Below are the possible destinations where the in-demand 23-year-old could end up in the summer:
#5 Real Madrid
As unlikely as it may seem, Real Madrid could pop up as a prospective destination for Rice. Current Real boss Carlo Ancelotti is said to be a huge fan of his. The Italian must have seen him from up close during his stint managing Everton.
As for the transfer itself, it could be an interesting one. Luka Modric, Toni Kroos and Casemiro are among the greatest midfield trios ever but they are aging. And sometimes, like recently against Paris Saint-Germain, they seem to lack steel and physicality. Signing Rice could solve this long term. That being said, this is still extremely unlikely.
#4 West Ham United
Another option for the Englishman is to stay put at West Ham. Rice has been at the club since he was 14, and obviously loves the club and has a deep connection. Although at West Ham, it is difficult to achieve his goals immediately, they are without a doubt on an upward trajectory. If they continue, there is no doubt they could soon be there.
Rice could be a real protagonist in this rise like he already is and can firmly cement his legacy in the Hammers' history books. They are currently 5th in the league and in the Europa League knockouts so there's no reason why they can't kick on with further investment and performance.
Another big reason as to why Rice might stay at West Ham is because they value him at over £100 million, which is an astronomical valuation. That is perfectly understandable because although he might not have the quality to demand that fee, he is certainly that valuable to West Ham. He is their crown jewel and they are desperate not to lose him.
#3 Manchester City
Now realistically, given that he would cost a lot, only a few clubs can afford him. Manchester City are one of them and sources say they are interested in him. Rice is certainly good enough to play in Pep Guardiola's system and he in turn can take the Englishman to the next level. In the squad, he can replace the outgoing Fernandinho's by alternating with Rodri at defensive midfielder or even at centre-back.
Given his quality on the ball, he can probably play in central midfield as well. There are two doubts, however. One is that although Pep does a great job of rotating his players, Rice will not be the first choice with Rodri present in his favored position. Secondly, City don't spend huge amounts on a single player and after the bad experience of doing it for Grealish, they are unlikely to pay £100 million.
#2 Chelsea
Chelsea have been interested in him in the past and continue to be linked with him. This might be the option that interests Rice the most. He was a boyhood Chelsea fan and used to be in their academy until he was released aged 14. So clearly, he has a massive point to prove and a dream to achieve.
His best friend Mason Mount is also at Chelsea so it might be a tad easier for the Blues to convince him as well. Chelsea are the current Champions League holders and are contending for the league as well, so there is no doubt Rice will get to have a go at the trophies.
Even at Stamford Bridge, he might have the same problem as at City. He'll essentially have to contest for a starting berth with world class players like Jorghino, Kante and Kovacic, with only two positions available. That might see him miss out on a lot, particularly the big games that he wants to feature in.
#1 Manchester United
This is arguably the most suitable option for Rice. United haven't had a midfielder who can break up play and control the game from deep for years. They have been crying out for someone like that. Rice will fit the role perfectly and will be among the first names on the teamsheet every week. Both the parties can really benefit from each other in this case. United also lack character and leadership, which Rice can provide.
However, one of the stumbling blocks is that they are currently not at the level where they can challenge for the top honors. In fact, they are quite close at their current level to West Ham, although there is a gulf between the stature of both the clubs.
That being said, United have one of the most expensively assembled squads of all time and a few changes here and there could transform them into contenders. It remains to be seen if the signing of Rice is one of these positive changes.
