West Ham defender Reece Burke’s expected move to Hull City has been hijacked by Derby County boss Frank Lampard, according to the Sun.
The newspaper claim the centre-back, 21, was “all set” to join Hull today (Monday) after leaving the Hammers’ pre-season training camp in Switzerland to jet to the UK for a medical.
The Sun report claim Derby, managed by West Ham legend Lampard, have made an eleventh-hour attempt to hijack the £1.5million transfer by tabling an “improved offer” and Burke is tempted at the possibility of linking up with him.
Good move for West Ham?
Securing £1.5million for a 21-year-old who has been pushed even further down the club’s centre-back pecking order this summer by the club-record signing of Issa Diop for £23million is not bad business for the London club. Sure, Burke has extensive connections to West Ham, the club he joined at the age of nine, but he has only made five Premier League appearances and has had loan spells at Wigan Athletic, Bolton Wanderers and Bradford City. In truth, he is destined for a career in the Football League rather than the top flight. With Manuel Pellegrini seeking another senior centre-back, Burke’s days at West Ham are numbered.
This Is Futbol rating 7/10
Likely to happen?
It appears only a matter of time as to when Burke will be unveiled as a West Ham sale. Will he pitch up at Hull or Derby? That is the question, and it will be a fascinating battle in the next 24 hours as to who lands the youngster. He will most likely go to the club who offer him the most cash and the best sporting project. Expect movement very soon.
This Is Futbol rating 9/10