West Ham United have launched a £10million bid for Lorient forward Alexis Claude-Maurice, according to journalist Kaveh Solhekol.
The 21-year-old enjoyed a great season in Ligue 2, scoring 14 and assisting four goals in his 35 appearances in his first real breakthrough season for Lorient.
Writing on his personal Twitter account about the eight-figure offer, Sky Sports journalist Solhekol said: “West Ham have made £10million bid for the Lorient and France U20 forward Alexis Claude Maurice.”
West Ham have made £10m bid for Lorient and France U20 forward Alexis Claude-Maurice
— Kaveh Solhekol (@SkyKaveh) June 5, 2019
The Hammers have set their sights on the winger, who made his French under-20’s debut in November 2017 and has yet to receive an international call-up since his two appearances for the youth side.
West Ham’s bid comes after reported earlier interest in the attacker from fellow Premier League sides Arsenal and Norwich City.
Good move for West Ham?
It was made clear at the end of the season by club captain Mark Noble that he expects the club to sign more young and hungry players this time around.
Pellegrini was reported to have needed to sell players in order to earn a higher budget this year, and the release of players such as Andy Carroll and Samir Nasri has certainly helped free up the wage budget.
A move for Claude-Maurice could be a great one for West Ham, at £10million, the Lorient forward could be a bargain after having a great season in France’s second division.
The only question would be whether or not the 21-year-old could make the step up into the physicality of the Premier League. His 14 goals and four assists show his eye for goal and the youngster could add some real flair at the London Stadium.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10
Likely to happen?
Arsenal reportedly had a £6.1million bid rejected for the winger, so this bid by West Ham is considerably higher and could tempt Lorient even more for one of their brightest talents.
It all depends on which move the French youngster prefers and the Gunners could turn out to be his preferred destination. Claude-Maurice is an ex-teammate of Arsenal youngster Matteo Guendouzi, which could turn to be a sticking block if the Lorient winger decides he prefers the move to the Emirates.
Should West Ham push hard for his signature, the lure of the Premier League could definitely be enough and Hammers fans could expect to see a new star in years to come.
This is Futbol rating: 6/10