West Ham have seen their enquiry for Stoke midfielder Joe Allen rebuffed in emphatic fashion, according to the Daily Mail.
The newspaper claims that the Hammers enquired to their Premier League rivals about signing the 27-year-old in the January transfer window.
It is understood that David Moyes is keen to sign a new central midfielder with top-flight experience and that the London club are willing to pay £15million.
The report details that Stoke responded to to West Ham’s approach by claiming the Wales international was not for sale at any price.
Stoke boss Mark Hughes has echoed the report by saying: “We can’t afford to lose a player of Joe’s quality.”
Allen has become a vital part of the Stoke team as they battle relegation and the playmaker offers a great attacking threat from the middle of the park.
Good move for West Ham?
Moyes has identified the midfield as an area he wants to strengthen and could do with a technician that can give them an added dimension, with many of their options powerhouse players.
Allen would be a great signing for West Ham due to his quality in possession and the attacking threat he offers.
The Welshman has already chipped in with three goals and five assists this season for a Stoke team that are struggling.
He has become a key player for his national side and his experience at former club Liverpool would see him able to make the switch to the London Stadium seamlessly.
This Is Futbol rating: 8/10
Likely to happen?
West Ham may have to take their search for a new central midfielder elsewhere as it seems unlikely Stoke will sell arguably their best player mid-way through the season amid a relegation battle.
Moyes’ side may be willing to fork out £15million for his signature, but it would surely take a larger fee to bring him to the club.
This Is Futbol rating: 3/10