"They'll definitely be interested" - Journalist now drops exciting Man Utd claim on 194-game ace

Manchester United are ‘definitely’ interested in West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice but may struggle to strike a summer deal thanks to his current employers’ asking price, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The Red Devils have endured an underwhelming campaign and are set to finish outside of the Champions League qualification spots, so the transfer window could offer the perfect opportunity to draft in reinforcements.

Erik ten Hag will officially take over as Manchester United’s new manager next week and it appears he has set his sights on linking up with Rice.

It is believed that the Dutchman has identified the 23-year-old as one of his priority targets ahead of the summer transfer window.

However, it seems the Red Devils will have to pay big money in order to secure Rice’s services as West Ham have revealed a £150million price tag.

If Manchester United were to meet the Hammers’ asking price, the central midfielder would comfortably become the most expensive signing in the club’s history.

Rice has been a regular starter this season, taking his number of West Ham appearances up to 194.

Jurrien Timber to Man United?! Find out more on The Football Terrace…

O’Rourke believes Manchester United are keen to welcome Rice to Old Trafford, but he doubts whether it will be possible to conclude a deal.

The journalist feels West Ham may have priced the Red Devils out of the running by putting such a lucrative valuation on the 29-cap England international.

O’Rourke told GIVEMESPORT: “I’m sure they’ll definitely be interested in Declan Rice. Whether they can do a deal or not is going to be the big question, really.

“His price tag is going to be very prohibitive, I think, for any club that wants to sign him with West Ham still