Paul Merson urges Manchester-United linked Declan Rice to leave West Ham United

Former Arsenal attacker Paul Merson has urged Declan Rice to seek a move away from West Ham United during this summer's transfer window.

The England international has again been in impressive form for the Hammers this season, making 37 appearances in all competitions, contributing four goals and four assists in the process.

Manchester United are believed to be keen to sign the 23-year-old this summer, and Merson has said that now would be the time for the midfielder to seek pastures new.

"Declan Rice should strike while the iron's hot and leave West Ham this summer,' Merson wrote in his 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.

"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."

Rice, who has a contract at London Stadium until June 2024, has scored nine times and registered nine assists in 182 appearances for West Ham in all competitions.