Transfer Talk: Hammer blow for United as West Ham demand £150m for Rice

Manchester United have been told they will have to fork out a staggering £150million to sign Declan Rice this summer.

The West Ham midfielder, 23, has caught the eye of several clubs after playing a starring role for a Hammers side competing for a top-four spot and European glory.

And the Daily Mail claim London Stadium chiefs have set their valuation at £50m higher than the current record fee for a British player — Jack Grealish's Manchester City move last summer.

Boss David Moyes has insisted that the chance to seal a "bargain" for Rice is over as he continues to impress for club and country.

Earlier this season, the Scot said: "There was a bargain to be got with Declan at £100m. That bargain is now gone."

The Mail's report adds that United hope the price could drop if a lack of alternative options emerge this summer.

Chelsea have also been keeping tabs on the England star but the financial sanctions placed on Roman Abramovich over Russia's invasion of Ukraine currently prevent the Blues from signing or selling players.

That could open the door for United but West Ham's performances over the rest of the season are likely to play a key role with two potential routes into the Champions League — a top-four finish and winning the Europa League — still open.

In other news

Juventus are preparing a mega-money package to lure Mohamed Salah to Serie A this summer, according to Gazzetta dello Sport.

The Liverpool star's contract has just 12 months left to run from the end of the season and the Old Lady want a big-name signing to replace Paulo Dybala.

Leeds will offer Kalvin Phillips a bumper contract extension to fend off increasing interest from Aston Villa and West Ham, claim the Times.

The Express are reporting that Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger wants a £25m signing-on fee as he prepares to leave Stamford Bridge on a free transfer.