Assessing Declan Rice’s options between Chelsea and the two Manchester clubs
Rice can end Manchester United’s search
“Manchester United is a different kettle of fish. Look at Paul Pogba at the Euros with Kante doing all the running for him and Pogba having the license to spray passes left, right and centre.
He would need another player like that next to him, so, that’s a different kettle of fish altogether,” Townsend added in his interview with TalkSport.
Declan Rice is someone who can end Ole Gunnar Solksjaer’s defensive midfielder search. Now, Rice does prefer to go forward at times, but his defensive numbers speak for itself. Against Germany in England’s Euro 2020 Round of 16 tie, Rice made four tackles and three interceptions, which was the most by any English player on the night.
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And while he is certain to lock horns with the likes of Fred and Scott McTominay for the role, the competition at United is going to be manageable.
His presence in front of the back four will give United a much-needed assurance, resulting in Paul Pogba getting greater freedom to work on his offensive duties.
In terms of approach, United do have the leverage over Chelsea as they can include Jesse Lingard as part of the deal.
Lingard spent a successful loan spell at West Ham last season and David Moyes is said to have asked the Hammers to enquire about a permanent move.
But with plenty of time remaining on his West Ham contract, the Hammers may not even listen to offers.
Manchester City in the mix
And then there’s this potential interest from Manchester City as well.
The prospect of playing under Pep Guardiola can be too hard to refuse for any player let alone for Declan Rice. This coupled with the fact that Fernaninho isn’t getting younger and Rodri is his only viable cover could make things interesting.
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Like their inter-city rivals, Manchester United, the Cityzens can offer Rice more playing time, but knowing the financial prowess of the City Football Group, the Hammers might look to churn out big bucks from the deal.