Paul Merson thinks Declan Rice should leave West Ham to join Man United this summer

Paul Merson has encouraged Declan Rice to switch West Ham for Manchester United this summer.

Rice was an ever-present in Gareth Southgate’s England side as they made the final of the European Championships last year, and he has continued to impress at the London Stadium this term.

Rice played an important role in West Ham’s victory against Sevilla in the Europa League on Thursday, with David Moyes‘s men booking their place in the last eight of the competition. Merson thinks Rice should seek a big career move while he is in such a rich vein of form.  

Declan Rice has been shining at West Ham, often captaining the team under David Moyes

He helped the Hammers move into the last eight of the Europa League on Thursday night

‘Declan Rice should strike while the iron’s hot and leave West Ham this summer,’ he wrote in a column for the Daily Star.

‘He’s taken his game to another level this season and is playing like N’Golo Kante now, affecting things at both ends of the pitch.

‘I’d be surprised if Declan Rice is playing for West Ham next season. They have completely punched above their weight for months.

When looking at a potential next destination for Rice, Merson hinted that the holding midfielder could be tempted by a return to Chelsea, having come through their academy as a youngster.

However, due to the uncertainty surrounding the Blues’ future, he has suggested that a move to Old Trafford could be ideal instead, although he has admitted that this could depend on whether United finish inside the top four.

Paul Merson thinks a move to Manchester United would be good for Rice this summer

‘Where could he go? Depends what happens at Chelsea and who buys the club. Manchester United would be a good move, but will they get in the Champions League? That’s where Rice wants to play,’ Merson added.

Rice is set to be back in action on Sunday when West Ham travel to Tottenham for their final match before the international break.

This promises to be a crucial match in the battle for a Champions League spot, with the two sides currently level on points.

West Ham will move clear of Tottenham and above United in the table if they can pick up a win in north London.