Gary Neville explained why he would be reluctant to spend £80-90 million on West Ham ace Declan Rice just yet, when speaking during Sky Sports’ production of Monday Night Football last night.
The 20-year-old ran the show for the Hammers against Aston Villa last night. He has come on leaps and bounds over the past 12 months. And he is now widely considered to be one of the best holding midfielders in the Premier League.
Unfortunately for Manuel Pellegrini, however, his fine displays have not gone unnoticed.
According to the Manchester Evening News, Manchester United’s priority is to sign the West Ham starlet.
Rice will not come cheap, however.
Former Premier League striker Noel Whelan claimed last week that the Hammers ace could move for around £90 million if he eventually leaves east London, as quoted by Football Insider:
“They will struggle to hold on to him, because the big clubs will be hot on his trail. I think Declan Rice could be the next player who goes for a Premier League record fee. We have just seen Harry Maguire go for £80million and I wouldn’t be surprised if Rice goes for more than that, above £90million, even.”
And Neville responded when asked by Jamie Carragher whether he would like to see United spend that amount on the West Ham ace:
“I don’t know. You talk about £80-90 million to get him out of West Ham. Would I say yes now, £80 million, £90 million, I’m not feeling that personally in this moment in time. But am I seeing a really good player who could develop into something fantastic in the next 10 years? Yes. But do Manchester United need another player there?”
Rice is a superb player, but Neville has a point. £90 million for a 20-year-old is quite frankly ludicrous money. The West Ham youngster still has a lot to improve upon.
One thing’s for certain, however. The Hammers will not let him leave without a fight.
As things stand, the England international seems to be very happy at the London Stadium.
And West Ham fans will be hoping that Rice remains in east London for at least a few more years yet.
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