Manchester United chiefs see this summer as their best chance to sign West Ham midfielder Declan Rice.

The London Evening Standard says Chelsea and Manchester City are also huge admirers of the England international, but Thomas Tuchel needs to sign two top-class centre-backs to replace departing pair Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen, while Erling Haaland is on his way to the Etihad Stadium.

United have a long-term interest in Rice, but West Ham's valuation of £150million has already got them looking at alternatives. The Old Trafford club are exploring a move for Leeds' Kalvin Phillips, who would be available for around £50m, and Jude Bellingham remains a dream target.

New manager Erik ten Hag would have to sign off on the pursuit of Rice, who United's transfer committee have already run the rule over.

The departure of Paul Pogba means a world-class midfielder is a must this summer and Ten Hag would ideally like to bring in two new players in that position.

West Ham remain adamant Rice is not for sale and have informed the player they will reject any bids this summer. The 23-year-old is believed to have turned down three contract offers, with leading clubs in the Premier League expecting him to move on in the near future.