To coin a classic phrase, Manchester United have made their top-four challenge a mountain out of a molehill.
The Red Devils are a far cry from the side that dominated so fiercely under the tutelage of a certain Sir Alex Ferguson but one particular signing could help steer them along the right path again.
What’s the word?
Man United have long been in the market for a holding midfield player and it would appear that won’t change heading into the summer.
That’s the word of transfer guru Fabriano Romano who commented on their transfer plans this summer.
Speaking to Hammers Chat, the Italian reporter said:
"He is top of the list for Man United since a long time. Man Utd dream of Declan Rice, they consider him the perfect player for their approach for the new season. Man United will sign a defensive midfield and Declan Rice is the player they want."
Rice heading to United?
Acquiring the West Ham titan this summer would be a monumental sign of intent from the Red Devils.
First of all, it’s evidently clear that Ralf Rangnick’s midfield is not the greatest when it comes to complete overall quality. Secondly, with Paul Pogba seemingly destined to leave, bringing in Rice makes total sense.
The Irons gem could be freed from the shackles of the bubbles that surround the London Stadium in 2022 to offer whoever the new manager is at Old Trafford talents that very few reign more supreme in throughout the continent.
For instance, as per FB Ref, the England international ranks in the top 30% for every single passing metric barring key passes, expected assists and progressive passes.
However, what Rice makes up for in a lack of forwardness with his passing, he certainly makes up for when driving with the ball instead.
The West Ham bulldozer ranks in the top 6% in Europe’s top leagues for progressive carries per 90 (7.01) and in the top 2% for both total carrying distance and progressive carry distance per 90 (178.76).
Also ranking in the top 5% in Europe for interceptions per 90 (2.76) and the best 5% again for a percentage of aerial duels won (65.3%) per 90 minutes, it’s clear to see that Rice would offer a great deal to United particularly when it comes to dribbling and doing the dirty work.
If a deal is there to be done, they simply have to swoop. It's a deal, considering his qualities, that would leave supporters absolutely elated.