Manchester United

Manchester United

Premier League • England

Huge Man Utd transfer back on as star completely changes preference, but Ten Hag to face Chelsea competition

Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham

A massive Manchester United signing is back on the cards after an England ace changed the parameters for his next move, although Erik ten Hag will have to fend off Chelsea to get his man.

Man Utd look like an attractive destination for pretty much any player right now. Ten Hag has completed turned around the mood of the club by getting the Red Devils to play exciting football which is also structured. Plus, he has put his trust in some of the younger players and academy graduates. This is something that always goes down well with fans.

Man Utd have won their last nine matches in all competitions, a run dating back to November 10. They scored three goals in three straight victories in the build up to the Manchester derby, meaning confidence was high among the players they could overcome rivals Manchester City on Saturday.

And that is exactly what Ten Hag’s men did at Old Trafford. They fell behind to a Jack Grealish header in the 60th minute, but Bruno Fernandes beat Ederson 18 minutes later to bring the score level. City complained that it should have been disallowed, given Marcus Rashford’s offside run, but it stood nevertheless.

And Man Utd soon got their winner, with Alejandro Garnacho turning away from Nathan Ake before picking out Rashford in the box. The Englishman poked home to continue his incredible scoring run and give Man Utd a memorable derby victory over City.

They sit in fourth place but are now wondering what is possible for the season. If their winning run continues they could end up overtaking both Newcastle and City.

Man Utd chiefs, along with Ten Hag, will also be wondering what is possible in the transfer market. Previously, they have been viewed as a ‘graveyard’ for young talent. But Ten Hag has completely altered this stance by improving most of his players.

And Man Utd could carry out a momentous transfer in the summer. They are big admirers of West Ham star Declan Rice. And the 24-year-old has now reached a huge decision on his future.

Man Utd target changes mind on next destination

It has previously been stated Rice would only move to a London club when leaving West Ham, as he wants to remain in the capital. This made Chelsea the frontrunners to complete his capture.

But according to transfer journalist Dean Jones, this is no longer the case. During an interview with GiveMeSport, the reporter said: “People keep doubting whether he would move out of London. I am assured that’s not really a barrier for him. He would consider moving elsewhere within England to make a transfer happen.

“So again, I wouldn’t totally rule out the likes of Liverpool, Man Utd and maybe even Man City coming in for him in the summer.”

This update will come as a major boost to Ten Hag and Man Utd. It shows they should have a good chance of landing him, should they submit the appropriate bid.

West Ham have publicly declared Rice to be worth over £100million in the past. But with his contract expiring in summer 2024, they may have to accept a lower fee at the end of this season.

Red Devils must overcome other Declan Rice suitors

The one problem for Man Utd is that they will face plenty of competition for Rice. Chelsea still have a good shot at landing him, as he has ‘unfinished business’ at Stamford Bridge.

The player’s recent decision will benefit Liverpool and City, too.  Liverpool could pursue the 39-cap England international as a solution to their glaring midfield problems. City are also interested in Rice, and there have been suggestions of a potential player-plus-cash deal involving Kalvin Phillips.

Due to this rival interest, Man Utd would have to stump up serious money to win the bidding war for Rice. But as they are going on the cheap during January, this could be exactly what Man Utd’s owners are saving up for.

Meanwhile, Wout Weghorst’s shirt number has been revealed after he joined Man Utd on loan from Burnley.