West Ham United are in advanced talks to sign Preston North End striker Jordan Hugill, according to Sky Sports.
The broadcaster claim in their live transfer blog (Wednesday, 16:08) that the Hammers had now entered an advanced stage of negotiations over a move for the 25-year-old.
Sky further report (16:09) that Hugill is now on his way down to London to meet club officials and try and finalise a deadline day move to the Premier League.
As previously reported by the Daily Mail, West Ham launched a deadline day bid to hijack Crystal Palace’s move for Hugill, who is rated around £10million.
Good move for West Ham?
It’s not a deal that will gather much excitement at the London Stadium.
It is clear why the Hammers are looking for a striker today, as Andre Ayew looks on the verge of a return to Swansea, but Hugill is totally unproven at this level.
The 25-year-old has eight Championship goals this season, and just 30 in 114 appearances for Preston.
Despite that underwhelming record, there is obviously something that club’s have seen in him, with Palace also looking to sign him in recent days.
This is Futbol rating: 5/10
Likely to happen?
It looked as though Palace were to sign him, but West Ham have swooped in to steal a march on their relegation rivals.
The Eagles look to be close to a deal for Alexander Sorloth from FC Midtjylland, and so it is understandable why West Ham are now in the driving seat for Hugill.
Talks are reportedly advanced, and so this one could be completed in the coming hours.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10