Manchester United legend Gary Neville has urged West Ham United to follow the Red Devils’ path of letting Cristiano Ronaldo leave the club back in 2009 with respect to Declan Rice’s situation.
The Englishman has reportedly rejected three contract proposals from the Hammers in search of a new challenge following the conclusion of this season. The 23-year-old has two more years remaining in his current contract with an option to extend the deal for one more year.
Meanwhile, the midfielder is reportedly keen on playing in the Champions League next season. And the youngster could remain at the club. If the Hammers win the Europa League and qualify for Europe’s elite club competition through that path.
Speaking with Sky Sports(via Mirror). Gary Neville stated that West Ham should learn how Manchester United dealt with the situation back in 2009 about Cristiano Ronaldo. And follow the same route with Declan Rice. He said:
“David Moyes has absolutely done the right to prioritise Europe in the week. He’s got a far better chance of making the Champions League that way than through the traditional route that is top four. Declan Rice, we know he’s going to leave in the next year or two.
“Because of the relationship, I think they can be really mature about this. I don’t think it has to be played out in the media. They can be really direct, honest and then communicate what they’re going to do. I don’t think there’s any reason to allow the speculation to destroy the dressing room spirit.
“When Cristiano [Ronaldo] left Man United the first time, it didn’t have an impact on the club because everyone knew what was happening. There was no sort of wondering what was happening, there was no speculation. I think West Ham and Declan Rice could afford to do that with this one because everyone recognises that it’s probably going to happen anyway.”
Will West Ham listen to the advice of Gary Neville?
West Ham has reportedly expressed their desire to keep hold of its star midfielder this summer. And if anyone would want to sign the Englishman this summer. Then the club will have to match the Hammers’ asking price of £150 million price tag.
So, this is looking highly unlikely that anyone will pay that sum to sign Rice this summer. However, if David Moyes’ side misses out on the opportunity to qualify for the Champions League next season. Then the 23-year-old might hand out a transfer request.
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