"Have a clear run" - Insider claims Man Utd hold advantage in battle for £150m star

Manchester United have a “clear run” at Declan Rice after the sanctions placed on Chelsea, says transfer insider Dean Jones.

Both clubs are thought to be interested in signing the West Ham midfielder, but the latter are unable to do anything until owner Roman Abramovich sells the west London outfit.

Despite the likes of Erik ten Hag’s new side and Chelsea circling, West Ham are reportedly confident that Rice will remain at the London Stadium next season.

One source has told the MailOnline that there is a belief that the Hammers can keep hold of the England international for at least another year in a huge boost to David Moyes.

The above could change, however, if a £150m bid arrives, with Moyes revealing last month that the aforementioned number is around the club’s valuation of Rice.

According to The Telegraph, as well as United and Chelsea, Manchester City also have an interest in Rice but are wary of another Harry Kane saga.

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With Chelsea basically a frozen asset that cannot do much right now, Jones believes United have a free run at Rice.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, the football journalist said: “United have a clear run at it at the moment because Chelsea can’t negotiate.

“Until that barrier is lifted and Chelsea can start talking and actually make a bid, United are obviously going to hope this takeover drags on a little bit because the longer it does drag on, United might get a head start in terms of persuading Declan Rice that he could be their new leader.”

United do look to be in the driving seat to sign Rice if West Ham ease their stance.

There are a lot of unknowns with Chelsea right now, while City’s interest does not seem