Former West Ham fullback Scott Minto has revealed Real Madrid are in contact with West Ham midfielder Declan Rice.

Minto made the revelation after West Ham's defeat at Manchester United.

He told Stadium Astro: “He's physical, he's quick, his maturity for his age is incredible and he's getting better and better and better with every game.

“Big decision obviously to leave the Republic of Ireland and go to England. Clearly he was told, not, 'You're going to get into the team', but: 'You have a massive future and could be what we need for the national side.'

“I'm hearing that even Real Madrid are knocking on the door and speaking to his family and I'm not going to tell you [who], it's a reliable source.

“West Ham, I'm sure, know about it or know about the fact [there's interest].

“Manchester United will be knocking on the door.

“The big boys of the Premier League and of world football will be saying, 'This is a young club that is a club that could sell for the right price and could become one of the stars in that particular position.' There's potential."