Of course, whether a rival bid for Rice comes to fruition will depend on United’s success with player sales early in the window.
A striker remains Ten Hag’s primary focus to add goals to his team. Harry Kane, Victor Osimhen and Goncalo Ramos are among his leading targets.
But stealing a march on Arsenal for Rice would add more goals to his midfield and provide Casemiro with a world-class partner and eventual successor.
There will be more affordable options, but Rice’s availability could be too big an opportunity to miss.
Want the latest football news? Join our brand new Facebook group by clicking here
source: express.co.uk