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Man United identify suitable Rice alternative

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OPINION

The long-term future of West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice is a sensitive subject.

When a young English player starts to consistently impress in the top flight, it is a given that some of the biggest clubs in the Premier League will come calling to try and secure them.

The Hammers’ midfielder has been sensational since breaking through at the London Stadium, and his partnership with Mark Noble continues to blossom under Manuel Pellegrini.

The Express recently reported that West Ham have slapped a £100million valuation on the 20-year-old to ward off interest from both Manchester United and City.

After his start to the season, it makes perfect sense that the Hammers are ready to keep Rice and would not give in unless a British record fee would come in.

The Daily Star reported on Tuesday night that Manchester United have identified Newcastle United midfielder Sean Longstaff as a suitable and viable option to strengthen their ranks.

The newspaper claim that the Red Devils still believe that even an £80million price tag for Rice would be unjustified and would prefer a move for Longstaff.

West Ham fans will be breathing a sigh of relief after it was suggested that Man United are set to look elsewhere, with Rice now more than likely to remain in East London.

The 20-year-old has been phenomenal this season in the heart of midfield having played every single minute in the Premier League.

Rice has averaged an impressive 3.9 tackles and 2.4 interceptions per game according to WhoScored and has provided the perfect shield in front of his defence.

The England international has completed the most tackles per game in the entire Hammers’ squad out of players who have featured five or more times, and his influence keeps on growing.

West Ham fans can surely rest easy knowing that Manchester United are set to look elsewhere, with Longstaff looking like their preferred option.

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