Dimitar Berbatov believes Declan Rice’s ambitions will see him snub Manchester United for a move to one of their rivals.
Rice has already been identified as a priority for United heading into the summer transfer window, with the Reds looking to strengthen their options in midfield – an area which has struggled this season.
The 23-year-old has been in superb form for West Ham over the past 18 months, and has firmly established himself as one of the Premier League’s top stars this season after a brilliant summer with England at Euro 2020.
That form has, unfortunately from United’s point of view, led to plenty of interest from elsewhere – Chelsea have long held an interest in bringing back their former academy player, while Manchester City have also been touted as a possible destination.
Rice certainly won’t come cheaply, with West Ham looking for at least £100million as they try to ward off any interest, although Berbatov believes the England international will move on.
The former United striker though isn’t confident about his old side’s hopes of landing the much sought-after star.
“Players want to win trophies, and with Declan Rice you can see his ambitions are big,” Berbatov told Betfair.
“Although West Ham are a big club, are they capable of fulfilling his dreams? He's been there for five years and when you know you're a good enough player and teams come after you, at one point you have to make a big decision.
“Unless West Ham are challenging for the Premier League title I can't see him staying.
“He's already been linked with a number of clubs and there's going to be big money involved. He will know in his mind where he wants to go, he's an ambitious guy and he wants to win titles.
“If Liverpool, City, Chelsea and United go in for him then I think in the current situation he's more likely to choose City or Liverpool, because it's been eight years since United last won the title and they are a long way off the others.
“But, he will have a choice to make and if he goes he has to go to a club where he is going to play.”
Sign up to our United newsletter so you never miss an update from Old Trafford this season.
