Chelsea give Manchester United Declan Rice transfer boost

Manchester United and Chelsea have shared a bit of a rivalry in English football since the turn of the century. It has included several races for the Premier League title as well as a classic Champions League final that will always be remembered for John Terry’s slip. In recent years, neither club has been competing for the top spot though, and a top four race has become much more common instead.

It is not always on the pitch that they are competing though but off it as well, especially in terms of making transfer signings. And one player that both have been heavily linked with recently is West Ham United’s Declan Rice.

Manchester United are seemingly determined to bring in a midfielder next summer and Rice is one of their dream transfer targets. On the other hand, Chelsea are believed to have kept tabs on the Englishman since when Frank Lampard was the manager of the club. There could be a twist in the race though.

As reported by Evening Standard, Chelsea appear to have Conor Gallagher in their first-team plans for next season although that has put a potential move for Rice in doubt.

Chelsea give Manchester United Rice transfer boost

Gallagher is one of the emerging stars in English football right now. Last summer, Crystal Palace signed him on a season-long loan and there, he has been one of this Premier League campaign’s breakout stars.

Gallagher will return to Chelsea next summer and is expected to be a part of the first-team squad. Of course, that puts doubt over any potential move for Rice, with the Blues already having the likes of Jorginho, N’Golo Kante and Mateo Kovacic in their ranks as well.

Manchester United could be the greatest beneficiary from the situation. Lack of interest from other clubs would make their path to Rice much easier. But at the same time, it is believed that West Ham United will look for a £100million transfer fee to let the England international leave.