Manchester United 'ready to steal march on Chelsea, Manchester City in Declan Rice race'

Manchester United are reportedly planning to push ahead with a move for West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice during this summer's transfer window.

The 23-year-old has again been in excellent form for the Hammers this season, making 44 appearances in all competitions, contributing five goals and four assists in the process.

Rice is believed to have turned down the chance to sign a new contract at London Stadium, but he still has two years left to run on his current deal, with the option of an additional 12 months, and West Ham are thought to value him in the region of £150m.

According to the Evening Standard, Man United will not meet the capital club's current asking price for the England international, but they know that this summer could be their best chance to sign him.

Chelsea and Manchester City are also long-term admirers of Rice, but the former need to sign at least two new centre-backs, while the latter are prioritising a move for Borussia Dortmund's Erling Braut Haaland.

Incoming Man United boss Erik ten Hag is allegedly keen to sign two new midfielders this summer, with Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic both set to move on.

Rice has played a key role in West Ham's run to the semi-finals of the Europa League, while he has scored once and provided four assists in 32 Premier League appearances this term.