Erik ten Hag Wants Manchester United to Sign Declan Rice
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is reportedly unhappy with the club’s lack of progress in their efforts to sign West Ham captain Declan Rice this summer. Ten Hag is said to be ‘angry’ that United’s push to land Rice has been hindered by the club’s lengthy takeover talks.
Current Situation
Arsenal appear to be in the driving seat to sign Rice this summer, although their opening bid of £80 million was rejected by West Ham this week. It’s understood that Rice favours a move to Arsenal, although United, Chelsea and Manchester City remain keen on a deal for the England international. West Ham are holding out for a fee in excess of £100 million for Rice, once all add-ons are included.
Ten Hag’s Desire
The Sun reports that Ten Hag has identified Rice as a ‘perfect addition’ to his United midfield and is ‘desperate’ for United to submit an offer to West Ham. The 24-year-old, who captained West Ham to their first trophy since 1980 last season with a win in the Europa Conference League, has been given the green light to leave the club.
United’s Other Target
Meanwhile, United are also in talks with Atalanta over a deal for their Danish striker Rasmus Hojlund. The 20-year-old finished the season with 10 goals in 34 appearances for the Serie A club, while United midfielder Christian Eriksen believes his Denmark teammate would be a good fit at Old Trafford.
Conclusion
It remains to be seen if Ten Hag will be successful in his efforts to bring Rice to Old Trafford this summer. With Arsenal in pole position to sign the West Ham captain, it may be that United will have to look elsewhere for reinforcements. However, with Ten Hag desperate to land Rice, it could be that United make a late move for the England international before the transfer window closes.