West Ham are expected to lead the bidding for wantaway Newcastle United midfielder Isaac Hayden this summer, according to a report from the Daily Star.
The newspaper report that the 24-year-old is eager to leave St James’ Park in the forthcoming transfer window to move back down south to be closer with his family in London, after reluctantly staying at Newcastle this season after he was denied a move away from the club last summer.
Newcastle have reportedly placed a £20million valuation on the Englishman, who has been in good form for the Magpies during the second half of the season, and West Ham could face competition to secure his signature this summer, with fellow Premier League side Brighton thought to be interested in a move for the player.
OPINION
Hayden’s desire to leave Newcastle this summer is publically clear and it could be good news for West Ham, if they are to capitalise on his situation and bring him to the London Stadium. Manuel Pellegrini will be looking for midfield reinforcements this summer, as he looks to improve upon a mid-table finish in his first year in charge of the Hammers. Hayden could be exactly the type of player West Ham need in their midfield, with the 24-year-old adding plenty of energy and power to the midfield of Newcastle during the second half of the campaign. He would therefore be an ideal potential partner for either Mark Noble or Declan Rice in West Ham’s midfield, with Hayden providing legs in the middle of the pitch and allowing either player to stamp their authority on the game. Pellegrini will be hopeful of securing a swift deal for the player, with other Premier League teams also monitoring Hayden’s situation.
