Declan Rice Reveals Why He Isn't Interested in Manchester United Move (Yet)

West Ham and England midfielder Declan Rice insists he is happy at West Ham for now but has hinted that he is open to a move to a bigger club when the time is right.

The 20-year-old was a key performer for the Hammers in the heart of their midfield last year, making 34 appearances in the Premier League, which in turn earned him an England call up.

His rise to prominence led to him being linked to Manchester United this summer, as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer targeted young British talent. However, while Rice was aware of the speculation, he has insisted that he is more than happy learning his trade in east London for now.

Steve Bardens/GettyImages

Speaking to FourFourTwo (as quoted by the Mail Online), Rice has not ruled out a future move, saying: “Don't get me wrong, I think I've got the ability to play for a club like that [Man Utd].

“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.”

Whilst Rice's ambition may worry West Ham supporters, he maintains that he loves plying his trade at the London Stadium in front of a crowd who adore him and a manager who gets the best out of him. 

Lintao Zhang/GettyImages

He added: “I'm loving it at West Ham, the connection between me and the supporters is special. I've become one of the fans' favourites and the manager likes me.

“It's the best place for me to play my football. 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.”

The midfielder, who is clearly open about his future prospects did acknowledge that if he were to stay at the club for the majority of his career, he could earn himself a place alongside the likes of Sir Trevor Brooking as a legend.

Michael Regan/GettyImages

He added: “To be called a West Ham Legend in the future, maybe, would be a real honour.”