One of Manuel Pellegrini's most important players of the season so far for West Ham United has been Declan Rice.

The teenager is versatile in that he can play as a defensive midfielder or in the back line.

Since coming into the team in the early stages of the campaign, Rice has made the holding role his own.

While his performances on the pitch have been impressive, there has been an ongoing story bubbling in the background that has some supporters worried.

Rice is yet to sign a new contract, despite the fact that his current one at the London Stadium expires at the end of the season.

The 19-year-old has not given any indication that he wants to leave the East London outfit, but that has not stopped the media linking him with a move elsewhere.

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According to the Daily Star, Manchester United are interested in making a move for Rice, but the report suggests that manager Jose Mourinho wants the youngster to solve his centre-back problem rather than install him in midfield.

West Ham insider @ExWHUemployee drew attention to the story on Twitter, and it sparked quite the response from supporters.