Man United Transfer Dealt Blow as Premier League Star Hints at Chelsea Move

• West Ham ace Declan Rice has been a long-term transfer target for Man United who are looking to sign a versatile midfielder
• However, the England international has said he plans to "stay close to home" amid speculation over a summer move
• In a recent interview with Gary Neville, Rice further spoke openly about his love for Chelsea while growing up and idolising John Terry

Man United target Declan Rice has dealt the Red Devils a transfer blow after hinting at joining Chelsea.

Rice has been linked with a potential move to Old Trafford for some time now, with United desperate to sign a prolific anchorman in their midfield.

However, while speaking on Gary Neville's Overlap podcast, the West Ham star revealed he is settled in the capital London as he is living just seven miles from Stamford Bridge.

Rice noted that he plans to ‘stay close to home’ despite speculation over a potential summer move.

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"Yeah, I'm here all the time. I've always wanted to stay close to this place, I feel like I don't want to lose my roots," he told Neville.

Declan Rice speaks on his love for Chelsea

The 23-year-old further opened up on his upbringing as a Chelsea fan, admitting that he continues to look up to Blues icon John Terry.

"Yeah, growing up the whole family was Chelsea. I feel like it's out there - everyone knows, it's well documented," he said.

"John Terry. I speak to him a lot. I speak to him all the time really. Just him, looking at him, everything was JT as a kid. JT26 on the back," the England international added.

Joe Cole makes top-four prediction

Earlier, Sports Brief Premier League icon Joe Cole has predicted Manchester United will win the race to secure the final Champions League spot this term.

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Man United, Arsenal, Tottenham, and West Ham are all eyeing a place in the top four at the end of the season.

However, Joe Cole contends the Red Devils are in a pole position to finish in the top four ahead of Spurs and Arsenal.

Just two points separate United in fourth and Tottenham who sit seventh with 36 points from 20 matches.