ERIK TEN HAG is angry that his plans to sign Declan Rice are being foiled by Manchester United’s takeover saga.
The Red Devils boss feels West Ham skipper Rice would be a perfect addition and has been desperate to make an offer.
But United’s protracted takeover drama has let Arsenal move into pole position for the England ace, 24.
Ten Hag’s spending is restricted while the Glazers decide whether to sell or stay put — particularly as United are yet to offload any of the expensive dead wood in their squad.
Qatari Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al-Thani is edging closer to winning the takeover battle.
But Prem chiefs would still have to complete the Owners’ and Directors’ Test which takes around ten days — meaning Ten Hag’s hands may be tied for at least another two weeks.
Arsenal’s initial bid of £90million plus add-ons for Rice was rejected.
But they are expected to up their offer with Manchester City also preparing to hijack the deal.
This comes as Marcus Rashford is prepared to become United’s top earner with a new £375,000-a-week deal.
Rashford earns a basic £200,000 per week and has another year left on his contract after the Red Devils triggered their 12-month option to extend.
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David de Gea already earns the amount being offered to the forward but is now out of contract.
United have offered De Gea a new deal at a vastly reduced £200,000-a-week — and told him they will not go any higher.
Should the goalkeeper sign, it would effectively see him and Rashford trade salaries.
