“United should pay it”: talkSPORT reporter drops big Man Utd transfer claim over £100m beast

TalkSPORT reporter Alex Crook believes Manchester United 'should pay' Declan Rice's price tag in order to prise him away from West Ham in the summer. 

The 23-year-old has been linked with a move away from the London Stadium in recent months following a string of outstanding performances, and he could finally seek a fresh challenge ahead of next season. 

Rice has become a crucial cog in West Ham's midfield since making his senior debut back in 2017, racking up 173 appearances for the capital club in all competitions, making 16 goal contributions along the way.

His outstanding displays have helped David Moyes' charges record a sixth-placed finish in the Premier League last term before advancing to the Europa League knockout stages in the current campaign. 

However, keeping hold of the 27-cap England international on a long-term basis may prove to be an impossible task for West Ham, given the apparent interest in his services. 

In September 2021, the Manchester Evening News claimed United had already identified Rice as their 'principal midfield target' for next summer's transfer window, with discussions over the potential framework having taken place. 

That claim came just months after Moyes declared that his prized asset was worth 'far more' than the £100 million figure the club's owners had placed on him.

"I don't agree with the owners that Declan Rice is a £100m footballer," said the Scottish tactician. "Far, far more than £100m. Far, far more."

Rice has arguably elevated his game to new heights this term as his partnership alongside Tomas Soucek in the West Ham engine room continues to go from strength to strength. 

As per WhoScored, the youngster has made 2.3 tackles and 1.8 interceptions per league game throughout