Declan Rice has been a standout player for West Ham this season and has unsurprisingly been attracting a lot of attention.
In early January, Manchester City were linked with a move for Rice, as per The Sun.
Pep Guardiola has been searching for his long-term Fernandinho replacement and Rice was the perfect candidate.
With Manchester City and Guardiola sniffing around Rice, it would be a challenge for the Hammers to keep him, despite his new contract.
But recent reports in the media suggest that Guardiola could now be looking elsewhere for his Fernandinho successor.
Manchester City chase Saul Niguez
Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez is on Manchester City’s radar despite having seven years left to run on his bumper deal, The Mirror reports.
The 24-year-old is a key player for both Atletico Madrid and the Spanish national team, operating in central midfield.
And Man City could launch a stunning £130m move for the Spain international to meet his release clause.
This would be excellent news for West Ham, who are determined to keep hold of Rice for as long as possible.
The 20-year-old, who has recently pledged his international allegiance to England, is one of the first names on West Ham’s team-sheet.
And as he continues to develop and get better, West Ham need to keep the youngster for as long as possible.
Rice is a future West Ham captain in the making and Man City’s interest in Saul Niguez surely boosts the Irons’ hopes of keeping their prize starlet.
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