West Ham identify Liverpool and Man United target as Rice replacement

Fulham Midfielder Joao Palhinha is reportedly at the top of West Ham's list to replace the outgoing Declan Rice.

The Hammers skipper looks set to leave the club with Arsenal closing in on a £100million move.

David Moyes has earmarked Palinha as a perfect replacement for Rice but a deal will be hard to do because Fulham are expected to put up a fight. 

The London club are believed to be demanding a fee of £50million for the Portuguese defensive midfielder and will stand firm on that price.

His contract does not expire until 2027 and Cottagers chief Tony Khan has revealed their is no release clause in his contract.

Palhinha, who has reportedly been a target for both Manchester United and Liverpool in the past, has had an impressive first season in England. 

His ability to break up play and tackle at an extremely effective rate makes him the ideal replacement for Declan Rice. It remains to be seen if West Ham can agree a deal with Fulham to make a deal happen.