Manchester United told what they would have to do to stand any chance of sealing Declan Rice deal
Former West Ham United striker Frank McAvennie believes Manchester United would have to invest in more big-name players to stand any chance of signing Declan Rice.
The Hammers midfielder — who played a key role in helping them reach the semi-finals of the Europa League this season — has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford in recent months. United are set to prioritise strengthening their midfield department this summer and Rice is a player of long-standing interest to the club.
However, in recent months, reports have claimed that the London outfit are set to demand around £150million to part with the England midfielder this summer, with manager David Moyes determined to retain Rice's services. He has developed at a rapid rate of knots over the last two years and interest in him continues to mount.
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The Hammers' demands may well price United out of the running, meaning they have already switched their focus to the likes of Frenkie de Jong of Barcelona and Leeds midfielder Kalvin Phillips. But even if United could afford to meet Rice's price tag, former striker McAvennie believes his old club currently find themselves in a perfect position to find other suitors.
"He's a wonderful talent," McAvennie told West Ham Zone. "I don't think he'll go anywhere in England to be honest with you.
"He wouldn't even look out of place at Real Madrid, or somewhere like that. I don't want him to go anywhere obviously, but Man United is another club that need him.
"But again, he wouldn't go there unless they bought big players. They're worse than West Ham at the moment.
"I just think if West Ham show ambition then Declan might stay at