Declan Rice transfer shows Manchester United what they must do for Casemiro

The transfer window is open and Manchester United's summer continues to be dominated by their protracted takeover.

The Glazer family are yet to decide on their preferred bidder for the club though differing reports claim that the Qatari bid has the upper hand after their final offer. Either way, it has been a drawn-out process that United need to come to a head soon.

That has been further emphasised as their rivals begin their moves in the window to strengthen for next season. Arsenal have wasted little time in their attempts to close the gap to Manchester City by bidding for Declan Rice.

The West Ham United captain will leave the London Stadium this summer after years of speculation. He has one year left on his contract and David Sullivan admitted the Hammers are resigned to losing him.

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All that needs to be decided is the destination and the price. Arsenal's first bid has been knocked back and Manchester City are also waiting in the wings to potentially swoop in.

For Manchester United, defensive midfield is not a priority after their move for Casemiro last summer. The Brazilian has been a revelation in his debut season at Old Trafford; his winning mentality and quality on the pitch have been inspirational.

Rice has been on United's radar for some time but as is often the case, the timing was going to be key with West Ham reluctant to sell. Whilst the Hammers have now been backed into a corner, the stars have not aligned for United to make a move.

Their desire nor need has waned and undoubtedly there are much larger issues in the squad to iron out. That doesn't mean they have to stand still in that area,