West Ham goalkeeper Nathan Trott is at the heart of a transfer battle between Manchester rivals United and City as the top flight giants both keep a close eye on the shot stopper, according to the Mirror.
The newspaper claim that the Hammers have launched contract talks to try and keep the six foot tall (source: Transfermarkt) keeper tied down at the London Stadium, with his current deal set to expire in the summer of 2020.
Third choice in east London, it is stated that Premier League rivals, including the two Manchester clubs, are keeping tabs on the youngster’s situation as they plot to take advantage.
Good move for West Ham?
Trott might well be third choice at the moment but if he is impressive enough for the reserves and in training, he could well find himself second in line behind Lukasz Fabianski, with Adrian likely to seek his own exit from the club after his years of service.
Tying him down to a new deal makes perfect sense, for even if the Manchester clubs do come in for his capture, it gives the Irons some bargaining power instead of letting him leave from a pitiful wage.
It would also show that they have faith in him to make the step up to the first team in the near future, and while it might not be an urgent situation, the sooner they get it done, the less stress on their minds.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10
Likely to happen?
The fact Manchester United and Manchester City are both named as potential suitors will not help the Hammers’ cause one bit, for his head could quite easily be turned.
Getting him to pen a new deal could be more difficult – and more expensive – with such reports circulating, but it does not mean it will not happen.
The Irons just need to give him the confidence he is firmly in their plans for the future, and that a place in the senior side is not too far away – which cannot be said about the two northern powerhouses.
This is Futbol rating: Contract signed – 7.5/10, Move away – 4/10