Manchester United could have the upper hand in the race to sign Declan Rice with Erik ten Hag’s side ready to offer players in part-exchange, according to reports.
The West Ham captain looks set to be at the centre of this summer’s transfer tug-of-war, with Arsenal, United, Chelsea and Bayern all keen on signing the midfielder.
After falling short of winning the Premier League title, the Gunners appear to be favourites for Rice’s signature and will accelerate discussions after the Europa Conference League final.
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Meanwhile, Thomas Tuchel is reported to have spoken to Rice over the phone and tried to convince him to join Bayern Munich, though the England star prefers to stay in the Premier League.
Erik ten Hag is also keen to improve his midfield this summer and is a huge admirer of Rice, with the Daily Mail claiming he is ready to sacrifice players in order to land the player.
United are looking to make some big signings and have agreed personal terms with Mason Mount, who could command a fee up to £75m.
Ten Hag also wants a new striker and while United may be priced out of a move for Harry Kane, they are also looking at alternatives, and have identified Atalanta’s Rasmus Hojlund and Frankfurt’s Kolo Muani.
With a new shot-stopper and defender also on their wish list, the Red Devils would not be able to pay the £100m fee West Ham are looking to exact for Rice.
But, United are now considering using players in part-exchange to tempt the club into selling and could use McTominay as a makeweight.
The Scotland international is believed to be highly rated by compatriot David Moyes and could be a right replacement for Rice.
West Ham have also been linked with Harry Maguire in the past and United are prepared to pay off the player to get him to leave the club.
Both players would suit Moyes’ West Ham side and could lower the cash sum needed to land Rice, also allowing United to kill two birds with one stone by selling two players who are surplus to requirements.
