Ex-Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has admitted that the club should have made a move for Declan Rice during his time in charge.

The Red Devils were heavily linked with the midfielder before he made the £105m move to Arsenal last summer, and Solskjaer believes the former West Ham player would have been an excellent addition to the squad:

“I really like him [Declan Rice] as a player – we’ve discussed him a few times, and I think we would’ve done well with him in midfield.”

“His legs, covering the pitch, and I think he improved a lot on his playmaking as well. Obviously, he would’ve cost some money, but we could’ve and should’ve gone for him.”

Rice has been outstanding for Arsenal this season

Many did question the amount that the Gunners paid for the England international but he has been instrumental in the club’s title challenge.

So far this campaign, Rice has scored 5 goals and provided 7 assists in 37 appearances for Mikel Arteta’s side.

United could be on the lookout for a new holding midfielder

While the boat has clearly sailed in terms of recruiting Rice, it is likely that the Red Devils will be in the market for a similar player during the summer transfer window.

Casemiro was only signed from Real Madrid for £70m in 2022 but many believe he is already past his prime at 32 years of age. There are credible reports linking the Brazilian international with a switch to Saudi Arabia at the end of the season. A replacement may well be required.

Benfica’s Joao Neves is said to be one of the players that United have scouted. The 19-year-old is highly rated with the likes of captain Bruno Fernandes having spoken about their admiration for the youngster. However, he does have a €120m (£102.6m) release clause in his contract.