West Ham have been offered the chance to sign Newcastle United defender Chancel Mbemba, according to Sky Sports.
The news outlet claims that the Hammers have been given the chance to sign the 23-year-old centre-back.
It is understood the London-based club would be willing to include their wantaway striker Diafra Sakho as a part of the deal.
The report details that West Ham are keen to sign a new centre-back this month and a move for Newcastle’s Mbemba has been given a green light, but Rafael Benitez’s side would prefer to sign a replacement for him first.
Mbemba is renowned for being a powerhouse defender and also has 41 International caps for Congo.
Good move for West Ham?
West Ham could do with another centre-back in January as the club have played with a three-man defence this season.
David Moyes’ side need to bring in some young players as he has an ageing backline, something that Mbemba would do and he has room to improve as a 23-year-old.
The Newcastle man is a no-nonsense defender and has the potential to be a consistent Premier League performer.
However, the fact he does not make the staring XI on a regular basis at St James’ Park suggests he could be out of his depth at West Ham.
This Is Futbol rating: 4/10
Likely to happen?
There is still a lot to happen for this deal to go through, but West Ham could well up signing Mbemba given the fact Newcastle are prepared to let him go.
The Hammers want a new centre-back in their squad, but he would not be the first name on supporters’ list and Newcastle may have to find a replacement first before he goes through the exit doors.
Meanwhile, Sakho’s influence could be huge as he is expected to leave West Ham in January and could be used to complete the Mbemba deal.
This Is Futbol rating: 5/10