West Ham United are in the hunt to sign West Bromwich Albion defender Ahmed Hegazi, according to ESPN.
The broadcaster report that the Baggies are facing a fight to keep hold of the 27-year-old following their relegation from the top-flight, with Tottenham and Leicester also in pursuit.
ESPN claim that previous reports of a contract clause allowing Hegazi to leave the Hawthorns for a cut-price £2.5million are not accurate, but West Brom are bracing themselves for offers in the coming weeks despite this big update.
Good move for West Ham?
Absolutely.
Hegazi was a rare shining light for the Baggies in what was a terrible season for the club, with the 6ft 4in enforcer [Transfermarkt] impressing throughout as he completed all 38 games.
Defence was a major issue for the Hammers during 2017/18, with the club conceding a joint league-high 68 goals over the season, and Hegazi would be the perfect addition to improve that record.
While the previously reported £2.5million cut-price deal is seemingly off the table, Hegazi would still represent a sensible and likely-affordable signing for the Irons.
Forever West Ham rating: 9/10
Likely to happen?
It would seem certain that Hegazi will be snapped up by a Premier League side in the coming weeks, but whether West Ham will be that club is anyone’s guess.
You would think that if Tottenham’s interest is genuine then they would be in the driving seat, but Leicester will also be ready to put down a big offer for the 27-year-old.
If West Ham do want to bring Hegazi in then they must move quickly to avoid disappointment.
Forever West Ham rating: 2/10
