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Erik ten Hag was ‘blown’ by Declan Rice against West Ham, with the England international’s performance enough to see him ‘climb’ to the top of the Manchester United manager’s summer wish list.
Arsenal are thought to lead the race for Ricewhich was also strongly linked to a move to Chelsea, but The sun claim the 24-year-old’s display at the London Stadium on Sunday was enough to convince everyone at United that they would have to go to great lengths to land him this summer.
Ten Hag was «in awe» of Rice’s performance according to the report, in which a source revealed: «Rice is fast emerging as United’s number one summer target.
“He completely managed the game and United’s coaching staff and scouts talked about him after the game.
‘There is a growing belief that Rice is interested in leaving at the end of the season and United believe they simply need to ensure he heads north and not to Arsenal or Chelsea.
«The club considers him a player on whom a team could potentially be built.»
The source added, «Declan is good friends with Marcus and Luke Shaw from England.
‘Man Utd believe they can convince Rice his future lies with them in Manchester.
«It would be a huge sign of intent and a great way for the new owners to show they are determined to try and match Manchester City for years to come.»
But Ally McCoist has warned Rice against United this summer, with recent performances under Ten Hag having «alarm bells ringing».
She said talk about SPORTS: “I would be really worried if he went to Manchester United right now, I have to be honest.
“I think they did really, really well. I have to say and you should say two cup finals and win the League Cup. If they could win the FA Cup which they would be second favorites and finish in the top four I think it would be a more than acceptable season. I think it’s a really good season.
“However, the last two games have set alarm bells ringing in my head watching them. I think they are probably further away than I thought. So I’m not sure if it would.
“Liverpool midfield are shouting out for Declan Rice, absolutely shouting.
“Chelsea have an excellent midfield but I don’t know if they will spend that much money.
“I would say wasted money spent the most half a billion pounds, you finish 12th and 13th, not great.
“I have to be brutally honest here; If you’re an Arsenal fan, this is the move of the season.»
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