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Recently retired and former Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere has urged Manchester United to sign West Ham United midfielder and Chelsea target Declan Rice.
The Red Devils and the Blues were linked with the Englishman earlier this summer. However, both teams have since gone on to focus their energies on other players.
United have made just one signing so far in the ongoing transfer window, bringing in Feyenoord left-back Tyrell Malacia. They have been linked with a few midfielders and are set to complete the signing of Christian Eriksen. The Red Devils have also been involved in a much-dragged transfer saga with Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong.
Wilshere, however, believes Manchester United need to sign Rice to improve their midfield. He told talkSPORT (as quoted by the Express):
“I will tell you what you [United] need. Declan Rice. United need him.”
It will be interesting to see if Manchester United make a move for Rice this summer. The Englishman's attributes and Premier League experience would make him an excellent signing for most clubs in the top flight.
However, West Ham's valuation of Rice could prove to be a stumbling block. The Hammers will not let go of their prized asset if their valuation of £150 million is not met. Rice's current contract at the London Stadium runs until the summer of 2024.
Chelsea, meanwhile, are yet to complete a signing this summer. According to Fabrizio Romano, they are close to agreeing a fee with Manchester City for Raheem Sterling. Besides Sterling, Thomas Tuchel's side have also been linked with the likes of Matthijs de Ligt, Raphinha and Nathan Ake.
It is worth noting that Rice was initially part of Chelsea's academy before making the shift to West Ham at the age of 14.
Manchester United and Chelsea target Declan Rice was excellent for West Ham last season
Rice played a key role for West Ham during the 2021-22 campaign. The Englishman made 36 Premier League appearances for the Hammers, scoring one goal and laying out four assists.
He made 80 tackles with a success rate of 53%, made 63 interceptions, 49 clearances, 286 recoveries and won 183 duels.
His exploits helped Moyes' side reach the semifinals of the UEFA Europa League and finish seventh in the Premier League.
Overall, Rice has made 195 appearances across all competitions for West Ham, contributing 10 goals and nine assists. The midfielder has also won 32 caps for England, recording two goals.
