Declan Rice urged to reject Man Utd for bitter rivals with blockbuster Ten Hag deal left in tatters
Ally McCoist believes West Ham United captain Declan Rice should snub Manchester United in favour of a move to Arsenal.
The 24-year-old looks destined to leave the London Stadium this summer, with Arsenal, Man Utd and Bayern Munich all firmly interested.
Indeed, Rice has gained a reputation as one of the best defensive midfielders in the Premier League. So, it will be interesting to see who wins the battle for his signature.
The England international’s contract at West Ham is set to expire in June 2024, and he has already expressed a willingness to play at a higher level. So, a departure seems inevitable this summer.
As reported by TEAMtalk, Thomas Tuchel called Rice in an attempt to lure him to Bayern Munich. Now, despite the German giants being confident of a deal, Arsenal and Man Utd remain in the race.
This season, the England international has impressed once again. In 49 appearances across all competitions, he has scored five goals and made four assists.
The highlight of Rice’s season, though, has been helping West Ham get to the Europa Conference League final. The Hammers face Fiorentina on Wednesday, in their first European final since 1976.
McCoist urges rice to join Arsenal over Man Utd
Former Scotland striker McCoist has now given his thoughts on where he thinks Rice’s next move should be. And, Man Utd fans won’t like what he had to say.
Speaking on talkSPORT, he said: “It’s a funny one. Over the weekend and over the season, if I’m Declan Rice and I’m weighing up my options, I am thinking I’d probably rather go to Arsenal than Manchester United.
“I look at Manchester United over the weekend, and I know they’ve won the League Cup, but they look as though they’re four or five players behind Manchester City.
“I still think Arsenal are well behind Manchester City, but I think they’ve got the potential to get nearer to them quicker.”
Indeed, Arsenal finished just five points behind Manchester City in the title race. But, Man Utd did win a trophy.
Both clubs are set to compete in the Champions League next season, too, so it’s not a simple decision for Rice. Although, moving to Arsenal would allow him to stay in London, rather than relocating elsewhere.
But, the midfielder will only get the chance to join Arsenal if they agree terms with West Ham. David Moyes’ side have reportedly slapped a £120m price tag on their star man.
So, Mikel Arteta will have to put his money where his mouth is to get a deal done.
Ultimately, though, Rice’s next destination is likely to come down to which of Arsenal, Man Utd and Bayern Munich get closest to that fee.
