Rice would prefer Chelsea move and other Manchester United transfer rumours

Declan Rice would prefer to move to Chelsea rather than Manchester United during the summer transfer window – according to reports. Speculation over the England midfielder and his West Ham future remains at fever pitch after United made him their priority target.

Having signed Jadon Sancho, Raphael Varane and Cristiano Ronaldo last summer, figures responsible for incomings and outgoings at Old Trafford are set to turn their attentions to the engine room for next season. Rice is still viewed as option number one in that regard – despite concerns the Hammers might dig their heels in over a valuation.

Facing an almighty battle to qualify for the Champions League, there are other potential complications for United, too. However, any would-be switch to Chelsea would not be plain-sailing, either, on account of their off-field issues brought about by a change in ownership.

READ MORE: Manchester United have decisions to make on 24 players sooner than they thought

United are, meanwhile, preparing to lose Paul Pogba on a free transfer for the second time. Depending on how the saga plays out, that could prompt the Premier League giants into a second midfield signing. According to a report in the London Evening Standard, though, they are not even leading the race for £150million-rated Rice.

The article suggests West Ham are not willing to sell the 23-year-old this summer. However, should Rice eventually move on, Chelsea are his preferred destination having spent part of his Youth career there.

Elsewhere, rumoured target Antonio Rudiger would demand to speak with the next United manager before settling on Old Trafford as his next destination. That’s according to SportBILD journalist Christian Falk.

Into the final months of his contract at Stamford Bridge, the Germany international is unable to rubber-stamp fresh terms and his future might, ultimately, be settled out of hand. United have, meanwhile, identified Erik ten Hag as the preferred candidate to replace Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as manager on a permanent basis.

The sanctions imposed on Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich by the Government mean the Blues are unable to tie any existing players down to new deals. It’s understood that Rudiger would want a clear answer over where United are going before, potentially, opening talks.

Sign up to our United newsletter so you never miss an update from Old Trafford this season.