Ally McCoist would be “really concerned” about Declan Rice joining Manchester United this summer, as the pundit put forward Arsenal and Liverpool as better destinations for the midfielder.
West Ham’s captain is expected to make a big-money move at the end of the season, though the Hammers will hold out for at least £100million for the 24-year-old, who has continued to impressed this campaign despite his club’s struggles.
Arsenal are believed to be the current favourites in the race to sign Rice but there is interest from across the Premier League, with Chelsea regularly linked with him in the past and United also keen admirers.
However, McCoist has claimed that making a move to Old Trafford could prove to be a mistake for Rice, with recent displays convincing him that Erik ten Hag’s side are not yet ready to challenge at the top of the Premier League.
“I’d be really concerned about going to Manchester United at this moment in time, I’ve got to be honest,” McCoist told talkSPORT.
“I think they’ve done really, really well. If they could win the FA Cup which they’ll be second favourites to do and finish in the top four I think it’s a more than acceptable season. I think it’s a really good season.
“However, the last couple of games have just kind of set alarm bells ringing in my head looking at them. I think they’re probably further away than I initially thought. So I’m not sure about going there.”
With Jude Bellingham reportedly close to joining Real Madrid, Liverpool’s midfield rebuild will have to focus on other targets, though missing out on the Champions League, with Jurgen Klopp’s side likely to miss out on the top-four, could hamper any potential move for Rice, while Chelsea will be without European football entirely.
“Liverpool’s midfield crying out for Declan Rice, absolutely crying out,” McCoist continued.
“Chelsea have got an excellent midfield but I don’t know if they’re going to spend that much money. I would say wasted money, spent the best part of half a billion pounds and you’re finishing 12th and 13th, that’s not great.
“I’ve got to be brutally honest here - if you’re an Arsenal fan, that’s the move of the season.”
