Manchester City do hold a strong interest in West Ham midfielder Declan Rice, according to reports in England.
Up until now, it is has been believed that either Manchester United or Chelsea would be the leading contenders for the 22-year-old’s signature. However, it seems as though the Premier League champions are also serious about signing the player.
Supporters on Twitter haven’t put much stock in these latest claims, with many believing that, while City may well be keen on Rice, they will have to pay up if they want to secure his services:
Doesn’t surprise me
— Stuart Dillon #COYI (@StuartDillon1) January 17, 2022
Best team in the country are interested in the best players shock! Next level journalism that is!
— A M (@AFM_WHUFC) January 18, 2022
I think this is where he will end up. I never want to lose him, but City is my least worst option if he does leave.
— Michael Kent (@Michael78291492) January 17, 2022
I have a strong interest of 200M for him
— THC (@TheHammerChat) January 17, 2022
Yeah Man City and just about everyone else. 😂😂
— kevin andrews (@keva9000) January 17, 2022
500 mill please
— Harry (@AqueMinerale) January 17, 2022
I have a strong interest in mbappe
— Lucas (@Lucas27858628) January 17, 2022
Honestly I don’t want to leave but he went to City then I’d say thanks and good luck. He deserves to be coached by Pep. He deserves a PL medal
— Bruce (@WHUBruce) January 17, 2022
Whether Pep Guardiola’s side would actually break the club transfer record for Rice, it does seem unlikely. The Citizens already have a decent holding midfielder in Rodri so spending nine figures on another player to play in the same position would be a surprise.
The Hammers remain in a great position in terms of the player’s future. The England international’s current contract runs until 2024, with an option for a further year, so any team wishing to sign him will have to pay through the nose.
