Declan Rice urged to make Manchester United move in the summer transfer window

Paul Merson has urged Declan Rice to make the move to Manchester United this summer.

The West Ham star has been in brilliant form for club and country over the past 18 months and has established himself as one of the Premier League’s top performers. The midfielder turned in another outstanding performance as the Hammers beat Sevilla on Thursday to book their place in the Europa League quarter-finals.

Rice’s form has led to speculation he could be on the move during the summer transfer window. The 23-year-old has been linked with both United and Chelsea, with the former having identified him as a priority target given their issues in midfield.

ALSO READ: Thomas Tuchel breaks silence on Manchester United speculation

West Ham are understandably keen to keep hold of their prized asset and have valued Rice at £100million. The ongoing uncertainty at Chelsea after Roman Abramovich was hit with sanctions by the UK government has also put a potential move to west London in doubt.

Merson has urged the England international to leave the London Stadium this summer. The former Arsenal midfielder also believes Old Trafford could be the perfect destination for him.

“Declan Rice should strike while the iron’s hot and leave West Ham this summer,” Merson told the Daily Star. “He’s taken his game to another level this season and is playing like N’Golo Kante now, affecting things at both ends of the pitch. I’d be surprised if Declan Rice is playing for West Ham next season. They have completely punched above their weight for months.

“Where could he go? Depends what happens at Chelsea and who buys the club. Manchester United would be a good move, but will they get in the Champions League? That’s where Rice wants to play.

“They play Tottenham