Soccer Football - UEFA Nations League - Group C - England v Germany - Wembley Stadium, London, Britain - September 26, 2022 Germany's Jamal Musiala in action with England's Declan Rice Action Images via Reuters/Carl Recine
Manchester City ‘could yet’ make a move for England star Declan Rice with the Premier League champions having ‘previously spoken’ to West Ham.
The Lowdown: Pep an admirer…
Sky Blues head coach Pep Guardiola has long been an admirer of the Hammers midfielder, first speaking about him all the way back in 2018.
Indeed, Rice managed to turn the Spaniard’s head far before his evolution into a Three Lions international regular and top flight sensation.
Guardiola, speaking to the media, tipped West Ham’s mainstay to become a ‘top English player for many years to come’ – and it appears City’s master tactician was very correct.
Now, Rice stands out as a crucial player for both England boss Gareth Southgate and Irons manager David Moyes at club level – prompting interest from a wave of major top flight clubs.
The Latest: City ‘could yet make’ Rice move…
This includes City as they eye the 23-year-old alongside Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United.
90min claim the Blues are among this host of big name teams keeping tabs on Rice, and while Chelsea are believed to be the ‘frontrunners’, it is also claimed that Guardiola’s side, the Reds and United ‘could yet make moves of their own’.
It’s added that the Eastlands outfit have ‘previously spoken with West Ham’ about the player with discussions already held.
The Verdict: Do it?
Called ‘sensational’ by reporter Adam Crafton, Rice has been nothing short of a revelation for West Ham at the London Stadium.
As per WhoScored, the east London untouchable could seamlessly fit into Guardiola’s starting eleven given he’s totalled a higher pass accuracy than any West Ham regular whilst also averaging their highest rate of tackles per 90.
His quality is evident and not the issue but there is an argument to be made that City’s real defensive midfield depth questions the need for Rice.
Indeed, Guardiola already has the indispensable Rodri guarding his back four while the likes of Kalvin Phillips (currently injured) and club captain Ilkay Gundogan can also play there.
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