Manchester United are targeting a holding midfielder as one of four major signings, and they have identified West Ham vice-captain Declan Rice as an option, according to the Manchester Evening News.

The local newspaper claims that manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer “rates” the England international, who has been in excellent form for the Hammers at the start of this season.

Chelsea have been pursuing Rice since the summer but the midfielder’s reported £80m asking price is proving to be a major stumbling block, which could allow a rival to swoop in and take the player.

It remains to be seen, though, whether the Red Devils will make their move in the January transfer window. It is believed most of their transfer activity will take place next summer when it is hoped that the financial pressures of the global health crisis would have eased.

However, with Chelsea tipped to make another attempt to sign Rice in January, it may force United’s hands into making a bid earlier than planned.