According to a report by club insider Claret & Hugh, via West Ham Central, there is a concern among Manchester United scouts that Declan Rice is too 'slow' with a belief emerging that he is in fact no better than Nemanja Matic.

The Red Devils have been heavily linked with a move for the Irons' star asset in midfield, even prompting GSB to value him at around £100 million.

However, as per this C&H update, United scouts are starting to have major concerns over a swoop for Rice who they believe isn't pacy enough to be worth acquiring for manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

The 22-year-old, starting 29 Premier League games for West Ham this season, has managed the most interceptions out of any Irons player this season and has been key for boss David Moyes (WhoScored).

As a result, this strange alleged stance on a move for Rice comes as music to the ears of many Hammers fans on social media - with one calling it the 'best news' he's heard in a while.

Find a flavour of their best verdicts from Twitter down below.

West Ham fans erupt over Rice claim

"Music to my ears"

Credit: @WHUHarry1

"Huge if true"

Credit: @MalmbergMelvin

"Best news I've heard for ages"

Credit: @Kennycandb

"Honestly that's brilliant news there scouts clearly see something we all don't so let them tell that to UTD and we'll keep the best CDM in the prem."

Credit: @shyland1988

"Excellent. Let them believe that!"

Credit: @AntonyBrisley

"Siuuuu

I hope this is true"

Credit: @whufcdp

"Thank god their scouts clearly ain’t up to it then lol. Great news for us Declan staying"

Credit: @olliebruton

"All ours then"

Credit: @Reece_WHU_

In other news: West Ham want this 'absolutely crazy' striker, find out more here.