Declan Rice turnaround has given Erik ten Hag another reason to sign him for Manchester United

Next month, Declan Rice could become the first English player to lift a European Cup since Reece James, Ben Chillwell, Callum Hudson-Odoi and Tammy Abraham clasped hands on the Champions League trophy in 2021.

He could become the first English captain to touch continental silverware since Jordan Henderson lifted the Champions League in 2019 should West Ham see off Fiorentina in the Europa Conference League final.

Rice could be playing for the big prize itself next season, the midfielder keen to play for a Champions League club. The question is whether that will be at Manchester United or not.

ALSO READ: United given Rashford boost ahead of Chelsea fixture

The Reds are one point away from securing a top four place and Erik ten Hag has said there has already been heightened transfer interest in the club. West Ham boss David Moyes has conceded he is planning for Rice’s possible exit.

Ten Hag is after a young midfielder as well as a striker this summer and recent performances may have made Rice more appealing to him. Back in February, Graeme Souness was critical of the 24-year-old’s ability to find the net.

"I'd want more goals from him," the former Liverpool great said. "In the modern game with the way the pitches are, for central midfield players coming onto things they've got no excuses.

"The ball's running smoothly, it's coming to you on a carpet and he's scored one goal this year, Declan Rice."

He has picked up the pace in the months since, firing in five goals including his goal for England against Italy in March’s Euro 2024 qualifiers.

Three goals have come in his last nine outings, not bad for a defensive midfielder. He is only one behind Casemiro in terms of club goals this season and is seven years