West Ham are one of several clubs interested in a January loan deal for Chelsea centre-back Gary Cahill, according to the Daily Mail.
The newspaper report that the Hammers are monitoring Cahill’s situation at Stamford Bridge with the experienced 6ft 4in defender [Transfermarkt] looking likely to leave on a temporary deal in January.
The Mail claim that West Ham are also looking for a number ten and are in the hunt for Atlanta United star Miguel Almiron, while the club are also unwilling to countenance offers for Marko Arnautovic in the upcoming market.
As previously reported by the Telegraph, Chelsea are prepared to allow a surprise loan exit for Cahill to thank him for his six-year spell at the club.
OPINION
It is no surprise that West Ham are among the clubs interested in signing Cahill on a loan deal in January, with the Hammers being linked with the 32-year-old for a long time now. Reports emerging on Wednesday suggest that Chelsea are willing to take the unusual step of allowing Cahill to leave on loan in January before walking away for free in the summer. Obviously the club would normally want to agree a new deal before a loan exit is permitted, but the Blues are said to be ready to reward Cahill’s six years of service with a January loan, and West Ham look to be a potential destination for the 61-cap England international. The Hammers would certainly do well to snap Cahill up on loan, with that giving them a good chance to then secure him permanently for free in the summer if the temporary stint goes well. The Irons have improved defensively in recent weeks but could really do with someone of Cahill’s calibre and experience leading them in that area.
