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Report: Man United plan to join Arsenal in pursuit of West Ham's Rice

Marc Atkins / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Manchester United intend to compete with Arsenal this summer to sign West Ham United captain Declan Rice, reports Jacob Steinberg of The Guardian.

News of Manchester United's interest surfaced the same day West Ham manager David Moyes admitted there's a "good chance" the defensive midfielder will leave this summer.

Arsenal were linked with the 24-year-old in January and were reportedly prepared to break their club transfer record to sign him. The north London club is still considered the likeliest landing spot for Rice.

But the actual fee could end up being much more than Arsenal are prepared to pay now that Manchester United have entered the frame, especially if there's a bidding war between the Premier League rivals.

Manchester United's interest in Rice, whose contract expires next year, has grown over time, but West Ham's high valuation may lead to the sale of current squad members in order to fund a deal for the England international.

West Ham reportedly won't consider offers less than £100 million.

West Ham would prefer to keep Rice, but he has no intention of signing a contract extension and would prefer to play Champions League football next season, Steinberg adds.

Arsenal have all but ensured they will compete in the Champions League next season after an impressive Premier League campaign. Manchester United are also in position to qualify, as Erik ten Hag's side sits in fourth place with four games left to play.

Meanwhile, Chelsea's interest in Rice has faded and the Blues are no longer expected to launch a pursuit.

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