Manchester United Willing To Break Transfer Record For $156M Midfielder [Details]

Manchester United are reportedly willing to break the transfer record to sign West Ham's Declan Rice in the 2022 summer window.

Rice's representatives have made it clear to West Ham that they feel it is the right time for their talented client to move away from the London Stadium, reported 90Min. However, International Business Times could not verify it independently. The midfielder is contracted with West Ham until 2024.

Ajax boss Erik ten Hag is expected to become Manchester United's new manager from next season. The Old Trafford side wants to land the 23-year-old midfielder as their marquee signing under the new manager.

The Red Devils are set to receive approval from Ten Hag regarding Rice's signing ahead of the 2022 summer market, according to The Telegraph.

Apart from Rice, Manchester United are also eyeing Tottenham Hotspur's Harry Kane and Aston Villa midfielder John McGinn, Teamtalk reported.

West Ham opened talks over a contract extension with Rice's representatives last year. However, the Hammers are aware that they would be unable to match the wages on offer from other interested parties. Rice currently earns a weekly wage of around $3,914, according to Spotrac.

Rice would be able to earn at least $326,000-a-week elsewhere, which is way over West Ham's wage structure.

Rice, who made his first-team debut with West Ham in the 2016-17 season, has been a regular starter at the London-based club. While his current market value is around $82 million, his market value curve is on the rise, according to Transfermarkt. The 90Min report has claimed that West Ham have labeled Rice with an asking price of $156 million.

West Ham are placed sixth in the 2021-22 Premier League table. Rice has scored a goal and provided four assists in the league. Overall, he has netted four goals and as many assists in 40 competitive appearances for West Ham in the ongoing campaign.

West Ham have reached the quarter-final of the Europa League, the second-tier European competition. They were held to a 1-1 draw by Lyon on Thursday.