Manchester United-linked midfielder ‘would still prefer’ Chelsea transfer

West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice would ‘prefer’ a move to Chelsea over Manchester United, according to reports.

Rice has been in fine form this season for the Hammers and is now widely recognised as one of the top midfielders in the Premier League.

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His performances have seen him linked with a move to a number of different clubs including Chelsea, where he played in the youth academy, and Manchester United.

With both Chelsea and United rumoured to be fighting it out for Rice’s signature, the Evening Standard set the record straight by claiming that he would prefer a move to Stamford Bridge over Old Trafford.

As per Transfermarkt, Rice’s West Ham contract expires in 2024, with the London club having the option to extend for a further year.

The same website values the England midfielder at £67.5m.

The Hammers are reportedly keen on extending the player’s deal; however, it has been reported that Rice has no intention of signing a new contract at the London Stadium.

It has previously been suggested that West Ham value him at £100m, with recent reports suggesting that they are looking for £150m.

Meanwhile, Ally McCoist has said that Rice is taking a risk if he decides to move to Man Utd in the summer transfer window.

“Is it his destination?” McCoist responded on talkSPORT after being asked whether Man Utd should be Rice’s next move. “Dear me… no.”

McCoist continued: “Do you know something, I think he’s probably one of these lads that, should West Ham be in the Champions League or they’d won the [Europa League] title, he’d be quite happy where he is.

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