Manchester United‘s scouts have been instructed to identify alternative options to Declan Rice in the club’s search for a defensive midfielder next summer, sources told ESPN, amid concerns over West Ham’s valuation of the player and contrasting opinions within Old Trafford over his ability to significantly improve the team.null
Rice, 22, emerged from England‘s Euro 2020 campaign as one of the key figures in Gareth Southgate’s team as the Three Lions reached their first major tournament final since the 1966 World Cup. His performances for England have been followed by an impressive start to this season for David Moyes’ team, who have faced United in their last two senior fixtures in the Premier League and Carabao Cup.
Though United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer remains an admirer of Rice, sources told ESPN the club’s recruitment team is yet to be convinced the former Republic of Ireland youth international possesses the qualities to take the team to another level.
Rice is regarded as being a powerful presence in midfield with a strong defensive mindset and has also caught the eye with his ability to break forward into attacking areas. But sources said some figures at United have cast doubt on whether Rice is quick enough, with and without the ball, and if he would be able to complement the qualities of Scott McTominay rather than replicate them.
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