West Ham United centre back/defensive midfielder Declan Rice certainly fits the profile of what Manchester United are now stressing in the transfer market. Given that he’s young, promising and English, it makes a lot of sense that he’s been heavily linked to United in recent transfer windows.
However, the 20-year-old doesn’t see the timing as right for a move at this point.
“Don’t get me wrong, I think I’ve got the ability to play for a club like that,” Rice said to FourFourTwo.
“But it’s all about the timing and I don’t think the timing is right for me at all. I’ve still got so much to learn.”
“I’m loving it at West Ham, the connection between me and the supporters is special. I’ve become one of the fans’ favorites and the manager likes me. It’s the best place for me to play my football.
Rice, who recently appeared in a short film about global supporters (produced by Betway, one of West Ham’s main corporate partners) further elaborated on his deep commitment to the East London club. Declan Rice was named to the PFA Player Young Player of the Year award short list last season, and won his team’s version of that award.
Just before 2018 ended, Rice signed a five and a half year contract extension that will keep him at Manuel Pellegrini’s side until 2024.
“I’ve signed a contract here for the next few years and I’m looking forward to playing this season and the season beyond, so we’ll just see where it goes,” said the Kingston Upon Thames native.
“To be called a West Ham legend in the future, maybe, would be a real honor.”
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