Manchester United could receive a transfer boost from an unlikely source in Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel's search for West Ham United star Declan Rice, according to the Evening Standard.
United need midfield reinforcements in the summer, with their current options in the middle of the park proving overwhelming this season. Indeed, over the years the midfield has cried for more quality, but the club has failed to address the issue.
The Red Devils are said to have seen Rice as a potential signing to add to their midfield ranks, but the Hammer star could be in high demand at the end of the season. Several top clubs will pursue his signing over the summer, including Chelsea, who are said to have a longstanding interest in Rice.
Now, it is said that Chelsea may be out of the race for Rice as Tuchel wants Connor Gallagher on the Blues' first team. The Cobham graduate is currently on loan at Crystal Palace, but the Chelsea manager is said to plan to integrate him into their senior squad next season.
Tuchel. Gallagher Alternatives to
Indebted to Chelsea, the Eagles have had an impressive season, with Gallagher being one of the most talented young stars in the Premier League. He has been a regular for the London club for this period, establishing himself as a first team regular and scoring a few goals for the club.
All this has convinced Tuchel that the 22-year-old is ready to compete for a first-team regular role next season upon his return to Chelsea. If so, the Stamford Bridge side may not pursue Rice in the summer to strengthen their squad.
Gallagher's stellar form for Crystal Palace this season could prove to be a boon for United, if the claim is to be believed. Chelsea's indebtedness has done enough to convince Tuchel to get a role in his team next season, and it could put United in the driving seat for Rice over the summer.
United fans have been crying out for the defensive midfielder for some time, and Rice is arguably one of the best in the business in the role in the English top-flight. West Ham man David Moyes has been hugely influential for the side, leading the side in the absence of the aging Mark Noble.
Our midfield has looked shaky and shaky throughout the season, leaking in goals due to a lack of solidity in the middle of the park. At Rice, we will find a seasoned England international and a seasoned Premier League player, even if the player is only 23 years old.
West Ham are certain to try to nab their stand-in captain ahead of the new campaign, so United will need to open the checkbook to snap the midfielder. With Chelsea out of the race for Rice, we may be at the forefront of signing a player due to our financial strength.