David Moyes has thrown cold water on suggestions that Declan Rice could leave West Ham next month. A number of Premier League rivals have been linked with the England World Cup star, including United.
During the summer, Moyes said Rice would likely cost north of £150m given his importance to the Hammers. United have limited funds heading into the winter window and a big-money move for any player is unlikely. Erik ten Hag is searching for a new striker with the loan market to be explored.
However, the Dutchman will have one eye on continuing the rebuild project over the summer, which the board have denoted as the next period for their recruitment drive.
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Rice could be a player targeted with the anchorman previously indicating his desire to play Champions League football in the future.
West Ham were knocking on the door of the top four last season but a rough start to the new campaign sees them already 16 points off a Champions League spot. United, meanwhile, are just a point away after Tuesday's 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest.
An exit for Rice at the end of the season is sure to be a topic of conversation but Moyes has ended chat about a mid-season departure. Speaking in a press conference ahead of his side’s clash with Brentford on Friday, he said: "There will be no chance Declan Rice leaves in this window."
Former United boss Moyes gave further detail on his stance on Rice just before Christmas. He said: "He wants to win and he wants to play for a really good side, which is going to give him that opportunity to do so.
"We hope that we can reach the Champions League. It is looking difficult at this moment in time but we are not just going to roll over and let Dec walk out of the building, that is for sure.
“It is going to be a big fight. I like it because he wants to challenge himself and wants to play in the big games and wants to be a top player. I don't think you are ever going to hold anyone back from having those ambitions.”
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