Manchester United 'to grant Nemanja Matic exit if Declan Rice joins'

Manchester United will reportedly shove Nemanja Matic towards the exit should they agree a big-money deal with West Ham United for Declan Rice.

The Red Devils are rumoured to have targeted the West Ham academy product to bolster their ageing midfield ranks.

With Matic turning 31 before next season, and Ander Herrera seemingly edging towards a move away, the Irish Independent suggests that United want 20-year-old Rice to add some much-needed energy to the side.

Rice has played nearly 70 games for the Irons, including 30 appearances in the Premier League this term, but he is deemed experienced enough to slot into holding midfield alongside Paul Pogba and another new signing.

The report indicates that United will offer the England international a substantial rise on his £30,000-a-week wages, with Matic one of the club's highest earners on £140,000.