West Ham are interested in signing OGC Nice forward Alassane Plea in the summer, according to The Sun.
The newspaper claim that the Hammers have approached the Ligue 1 side about signing him, but know that they have to stump up £25million in order to seal a deal for his services.
The Sun report that Nice are a wealthy club and that they have increased their asking price for Plea throughout the season, due to his impressive form.
The 25-year-old forward has scored 18 goals in 44 appearances this season, with 13 of his goals coming in the league.
David Moyes’ side would face competition for his signature as Calciomeracto previously reported that Everton, Newcastle United and Burnley were all interested in signing Plea in the summer.
Good move for West Ham?
Absolutely.
It may have taken Plea until this season to really showcase his talent in front of goal, but the 25-year-old shows no signs that he will stop being clinical anytime soon.
The centre-forward has took Ligue 1 by storm this season and he is well worth the Hammers paying £25million for, especially as Plea’s pace and technical ability also allow him to play as a left-winger if necessary.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10
Likely to happen?
The Sun’s report claims that Jordan Hugill could be sold or loaned out in the summer, which would mean the Hammers would definitely have a space for Plea in their squad.
So with that in mind and the fact that Moyes’ side have already been making approaches for him, then there’s a real chance that a deal could happen.
However the newspaper also reveal that Nice do not need to sell due to financial reasons, which means the Hammers won’t be able to easily negotiate a lower price for Plea.
This is Futbol rating: 7/10