Manchester United Legend Makes Surprising Transfer Admission
Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes has performed a dramatic U-turn by naming Arsenal star Declan Rice as his "dream" signing for the Red Devils. The Premier League legend, who has repeatedly questioned Rice's abilities over the past year, made the surprising revelation during a recent podcast appearance.
Scholes' Complete Change of Heart
Speaking on The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast, Scholes said: "I think I would go Declan Rice. I know I've slagged him off a little bit but I think Manchester United need someone like Rice. I think they need a proper central midfielder." This represents a significant shift from his previous comments, where he had named three midfielders he considered "better" than the Arsenal star and claimed Rice hadn't been Mikel Arteta's best player this season.
The 11-time Premier League winner emphasized Manchester United's need for midfield reinforcements, particularly with Brazilian legend Casemiro confirmed to be leaving Old Trafford at the season's end. United had already been planning midfield additions before Casemiro's January announcement about his departure.
Realistic Targets and United's Ambition
Scholes also discussed what he considers "realistic targets" for Manchester United, stating: "I heard Rio Ferdinand say something the other day about who is a realistic managerial target for United. But every manager and player should be realistic for Man United. Who isn't a realistic target for United? I don't believe that, I think anyone is possible for United."
The former England international specifically mentioned several players linked with moves to Old Trafford, including Premier League stars Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba, and Sando Tonali. "The ones they're talking about are Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton and Sando Tonali – that is a position United need to strengthen," Scholes added.
Rice's Arsenal Impact and Current Context
Declan Rice has established himself as one of the Premier League's most influential midfielders since his £105 million move from West Ham to Arsenal in 2023. The 27-year-old England international has been instrumental in Arsenal's title challenge this season, though he's yet to lift his first major trophy with the Gunners.
Rice was part of the Arsenal team that suffered a potentially costly 2-1 defeat to Manchester City last weekend, a result that saw Arsenal's lead at the top of the Premier League shrink to just three points. Manchester City now hold the status of title favorites, boasting a game in hand over their London rivals.
Manchester United's Current Situation
Meanwhile, Scholes' former club Manchester United returned to winning ways on Saturday with a victory over struggling Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. The Red Devils have climbed to third place under caretaker manager Michael Carrick after sitting fifth when Ruben Amorim was sacked in January.
United's midfield remains a priority area for strengthening, with Scholes' comments highlighting both the club's needs and the surprising nature of his personal recommendation. Rice's potential move would represent one of the most dramatic transfers in recent Premier League history, given his importance to Arsenal and the rivalry between the two clubs.
