Brighton are preparing a £2million bid to take West Ham defender James Collins to the Amex Stadium this month, according to The Sun.
The newspaper report that Brighton boss Chris Hughton is desperate to bring in defensive reinforcements as the Seagulls prepare for their relegation battle, and have lined up a bid for the 34-year-old Wales international.
The Sun claim that Hughton is targeting players with Premier League experience, and hopes to take advantage of the fact that Collins has just six months left on his current deal at the London Stadium.
It is said that Collins is yet to agree terms of a new deal at West Ham, where he has played for six straight seasons after joining for a second spell at the club from Aston Villa.
Good move for West Ham?
No.
Firstly, the Hammers will not be able to secure a replacement for Collins with just £2million, and David Moyes has said he will not let anyone go without a new player lined up.
Secondly, selling Collins to Brighton this month would see them both weaken themselves and strengthen a relegation rival.
Clubs need every little help they can get in the fight against the drop, and selling Collins would most certainly not help West Ham.
They would even be better off keeping Collins for the season and then letting him go on a free this summer.
This is Futbol rating: 2/10
Likely to happen?
For the reasons stated above, no.
Moyes has been very clear that he does not want to let any of his players go this month, unless an astronomical offer comes in.
Collins has shown that he still has what it takes to contribute for West Ham with his recent displays, and Moyes will have recognised that.
While £2million is probably a good price for a 34-year-old with six months left on his contract, the club will surely take into account all these other factors and will shut down any deal.
This is Futbol rating: 3/10