Manchester United 'join' Arsenal in Declan Rice pursuit and more transfer rumours

Manchester United are ready to rival Arsenal in their pursuit of Declan Rice, according to reports.

The 24-year-old looks set to leave West Ham United this summer, having made no secret of his desire to win major trophies and compete in the Champions League. Arsenal have been frontrunners for the midfielder for some time, laying the groundwork ahead of their summer approach.

Erik ten Hag is eyeing a top-class midfielder this summer as one of his priority positions, having failed to land Frenkie de Jong last year. Jude Bellingham is admired around both halves of Manchester but looks set to join Real Madrid after reportedly agreeing personal terms.

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And now the Guardian reports that United will put their name in the hat for Rice and look set to battle Arsenal for his signature. The Hammers have said they would want at least £100m for the 24-year-old, with Mikel Arteta's side reportedly reluctant to match that and conscious of a late approach from the Reds.

Elsewhere, the Mirror reports that United are interested in Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez but look set to face competition from Tottenham and Chelsea.

Martinez is said to be considering his future despite a brilliant second half of the season at Villa, with Unai Emery's side making a late surge for European football.

Ten Hag is thought to be in the market for a new goalkeeper this summer, following more questions on David De Gea after his mistake vs West Ham.

Any approach for the World Cup-winning Argentinian is expected to face competition from both Spurs and Chelsea, however, with Villa likely to command a high fee.

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