Man Utd decide 'three-man transfer shortlist' as midfield overhaul begins

Manchester United have reportedly included England internationals Kalvin Phillips, Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice on a three-man transfer shortlist.

The Red Devils, who are expected to announce Erik ten Hag as their new manager in the coming weeks, are planning on a complete overhaul of their midfield this summer. Many critics accept that department has been United's weak point for some time.

Paul Pogba is likely to leave the club when his existing deal expires in June, while there are huge question marks over Fred, Scott McTominay and Nemanja Matic. United's poor midfield has seen them slip down the Premier League, as they currently sit in seventh.

And, as reported by The Sun, United will make a move for either Phillips, Bellingham and Rice this summer. The former is believed to be the most achievable signing, despite the fierce rivalry between his current side Leeds and the Red Devils.

Phillips is a boyhood Leeds fan. The midfielder is on course to become a legend at Elland Road and would have to sacrifice that to join the Red Devils. Players have ditched Leeds for Manchester before, most notably Alan Smith and Eric Cantona.

Leeds are set for contract extension talks with Phillips' representatives this summer, although those plans could be scuppered due to the player switching agents. According to Transfermarkt, he is valued at £45million - an affordable price for United.

The same can't be said for Rice, however, as it's believed West Ham want £150m for their prized asset. The former Republic of Ireland international is thought to be United's preferred choice, yet they've been put off by the Hammers' humongous demands.

"Maybe people don’t have enough to write about," said West Ham manager David Moyes in