Man Utd sent Declan Rice transfer warning amid West Ham standoff

Declan Rice could leave West Ham United at the end of the season and the midfielder has been warned he would not be a “big signing” for Manchester United despite his price tag

Kleberson believes Manchester United should only pursue Declan Rice if he fits into Erik ten Hag’s system as they weigh a potential £100m swoop for the midfielder.

The 23-year-old has been linked with a move from West Ham United this summer, with Manchester City, the Red Devils and Chelsea all said to be interested in the player. Ten Hag will make a new midfielder his main target in the transfer window to strengthen his squad.

Rice could be someone to move to Old Trafford, although West Ham are very reluctant to lose what are arguably their best prospects. That’s true even after the England international turned down a stunning eight-year, £200,000-a-week deal. He has so far turned down three new deals with the Hammers, who are keen to keep him out of the clutches of their Premier League rivals.

However, the Red Devils are looking for new midfield options as Nemanja Matic, Juan Mata and Paul Pogba are set to leave the club as their contracts expire. Kleberson, who spent two years at United, admitted that despite his qualities, Rice would not be a “big signing”.

He said GATE : “Whether Declan Rice is worth £100m depends on how Erik ten Hag wants to play. Declan Rice is a good player and he can help Manchester United make better decisions in most areas but it all depends on how the new manager is put in place for him.

“He’s not a big signing, more of a project and he would fit in well with United. It might take him a bit to settle in but the more minutes he gets the better he can help Manchester United.”

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Kleberson also suggested Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes could be a long-term target for the Red Devils. He has impressed in the North East since his £40m move from Lyon in January amid potential transfer interest from a host of Champions League clubs.

Kleberson added: “It might be a bit early but the way he’s playing, the quality he’s got and the way he’s improved Newcastle’s players, I’d love to see Bruno Guimaraes at Manchester United. He’s doing a great job at Newcastle and it’s too early to join United but he’s one for the future.

“He plays more the way Manchester United have to play their players. He touches the ball less and always passes forward, which creates many dangerous situations for the opponent. He’s not the type to hold the ball for too long, he picks up quick touches and can speed up the game.”