Former Arsenal and Aston Villa midfielder Paul Merson believes top six clubs will be eyeing a move for Declan Rice this summer.

The 20-year-old only signed a new deal back in December but Merson thinks the likes of Manchester United, Arsenal and Manchester City could make an offer for the player:

“Bigger clubs will be looking at him come the end of the season and probably are now. He signed a new contract but it’s not worth a whole lot of money and he could certainly earn a lot more elsewhere. Any of the top teams would take him.”

“Manchester United and Arsenal both need a midfielder. Even Manchester City need someone to come in for Fernandinho now and then. Now he’s chosen England, he’s just added to his value. Everyone is looking for young English talent. He ticks all the boxes.”

Rice has been in superb form for the Hammers this season, having been given a chance to shine by manager Manuel Pellegrini in a holding midfield role.

Alongside Mark Noble, he has established himself as a key figure in the middle of the park, despite having been mostly used as a centre-back in the past.

Under Pellegrini, Rice has started 23 out of West Ham’s 26 league games this campaign. He even scored his first goal for the club, hitting the winner against Arsenal in the 1-0 win last month.

The midfielder has also recently switched his international allegiance from Ireland to England. He had three caps for the Republic to his name.