Manchester United transfer target Declan Rice has dropped a huge hint that he could depart West Ham in search of European football.

Rice has impressed under David Moyes this season, captaining the Hammers for much of the campaign as they have emerged as challengers for a Champions League spot.

The 22-year-old’s displays in defensive midfield have attracted the interest of several of the Premier League ’s top clubs, with United one of the frontrunners.

The Red Devils will seek to boost their midfield options in the summer transfer window, with Fred failing to convince that he is a long-term solution.

Chelsea and Manchester United are interested in signing Declan Rice (
Image:
Pool via REUTERS)

While West Ham are on course to qualify for at least the Europa League, Rice has now revealed that he wants to be playing Champions League football in the long-term.

The Hammers are currently in a four-way battle for fourth place in the Premier League, with Chelsea currently the final team set to qualify for the Champions League.

That would appear to be a huge boost to the Red Devils, who have all but confirmed their place in the top four.

Rice has impressed for West Ham this season (
Image:
REUTERS)

“To have that Champions League music playing, that’s where I want to be,” Rice told BBC’s MOTDx.

“It’s special, I can’t really describe it to be honest. As a kid it’s your dream, first of all to play in the Premier League, but to be competing for the Champions League [as well].

“You know West Ham, people say (we’re) a mid-table club and last three seasons we’ve been battling relegation. But this, what we’re doing now, has always been there. It was just about when. We’re on fire.

“We’re on course to have West Ham’s best ever season in the Premier League. That in itself is an achievement. There’s a great chance that we are going to get some sort of European spot.”

While the Hammers are battling for European football this season, Rice’s comments are arguably a boost to his potential suitors, with Moyes’ side more of a surprise than expected to consistently challenge for the top four.