Erik ten Hag can make a "statement" at Man Utd by signing "world-class" £150m star - pundit

Manchester United’s incoming manager Erik ten Hag could make ‘a statement’ by signing Declan Rice this summer, according to pundit Carlton Palmer.

The Dutch tactician is expected to oversee a significant overhaul of the first-team squad during his first few months in charge following a hugely underwhelming campaign.

Rice, who has been labelled “world-class”, currently has just over two years left to run on his current contract, although West Ham have the option to extend his stay by a further 12 months.

However, the England international has reportedly turned down a third offer of a new deal by the capital club and has recently expressed his ‘urgent’ desire to win trophies and play in the Champions League.

Previous reports have linked Rice to the likes of Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea due to his outstanding displays for the Hammers, although it now appears to be a one-horse race.

According to ESPN, United ‘are likely to have a clear run’ at signing the 6 foot 1 ace as their rivals are all focussed on other targets or improving different areas of the pitch ahead of next season.

Liverpool reach CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL with stunning comeback vs Villarreal! Full reaction on The Football Terrace…

West Ham boss David Moyes has previously insisted that his prized asset is ‘not for sale’ while insisting it would take a British-record fee to prise him away from the London Stadium.

“£150 million just now would be the minimum, but he is not for sale. What I do know is that it means there are only certain clubs that could even consider it,” Moyes claimed.

Palmer believes that Rice’s arrival at Old Trafford could elevate United up to ‘three places’ higher in the Premier League standings next term.

He told GiveMeSport: “The