According to the Daily Mail, Manchester United is considering including Scott McTominay in a player-plus-cash deal to secure the signing of West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice during the summer transfer window.
United is keen to strengthen their midfield for the upcoming season and has already identified Chelsea’s Mason Mount as their primary target for the number eight role.
However, this has not prevented speculation linking them to Rice, and the Daily Mail reports that United could outbid Arsenal by engaging in negotiations for a part-exchange deal with West Ham.
The Gunners are currently working on a structured deal valued at £90 million for the 24-year-old midfielder, but West Ham values Rice at over £100 million.
Must Read: West Ham Believe Manchester United Will Offer More Money For Declan Rice
United may face budget constraints preventing them from affording the complete package, but it is suggested that they could offer McTominay as part of the deal. The 26-year-old midfielder has reportedly been on West Ham’s radar.
While Bayern Munich has also expressed interest in signing the English international, it is reported that Rice is willing to reject their advances in order to continue playing in the Premier League.
However, current reports also suggest that Mount has been currently identified as a top target by United manager Erik Ten Hag. The personal terms have already been agreed upon for Mount’s potential move from Stamford Bridge to Old Trafford.
While there is currently a £30 million valuation gap between the two clubs, it is expected that they will find a resolution soon, as Chelsea would not want to retain Mount for just the final year of his contract.
Mount is likely to play in the number eight role, a position currently occupied by Christian Eriksen, and his potential transfer could put an end to United’s reported interest in signing Declan Rice.
Also Read: Manchester United fans show mixed reactions on Mason Mount transfer rumours
Rice, who is seen as a fantastic signing for the Red Devils, could come at a cost of £60-70 million, even if Scott McTominay is included in a part-exchange deal.
However, a significant hurdle could be the playing time that Rice would be guaranteed. Ten Hag may not be able to guarantee Rice a starting role due to Casemiro’s impressive performances in the defensive midfield position.
