West Ham are currently scouting Jonathan David as the club look to add firepower this summer, with ExWHUEmployee reporting an update on the situation.
Its widely expected that West Ham will see a overhaul of the squad during this transfer window, and what with the added news that Ben Johnson is now closing in on a move to Ipswich Town – this has further highlighted the need to rebuild this summer.
Reporting on The West Ham Way Patreon on Monday afternoon (2 days ago), our club insider and Podcast co-host has updated on the current state of play (with the more detailed report available on Patreon), with Ex advising that the club are monitoring various players including Jonathan David, whom is currently being scouted by Tim Steidten’s recruitment team.
“Jonathan David is another player whose interest we have been reporting for a long time,” said Ex. “Alex Bunbury has also spoke to the player and put his love for West Ham to him.
“We currently have scouts at the Copa America who have been watching David’s Canada and it was also there that Ismael Kone of Watford’s performances also got noted. Although Marseille seem to be very close to completing a move for him and their new manager De Zebri loves the player. Kone has made it clear he would like to join a club in a top European league.
“Jonathan David’s valuation will be key here but it is thought that West Ham have received reassurances that it could be within our price range. Other club from the continent and the Premier League are said to be interested these include Chelsea and Manchester United.
“At the moment David is just one of a number of forward options and players who we are currently talking to. We are doing our usual tactic of weighing up the best value option out of a number of targets.”
Ex also provided an update on the situation surrounding the club looking to replace Ben Johnson, with the Academy graduates impending exit nearing.
“Alfie Doughty had a great season for Luton Town last year and will also be considered home grown,” added the insider. “He is a versatile player (although mainly a left back, he can cover on the right side too) as well which would appeal to Lopetegui and is the same age as Ben Johnson so seems the perfect replacement. There are a number of clubs in for Doughty as well.
“Another player that also would be home grown, versatile (although mainly a centre back he can player right back) and the same age as Ben Johnson is Trevoh Chalobah of Chelsea, although his price tag of around £25m could be too much.
“Aaron Wan-Bissaka of Manchester United is a contender too. Although his price and the fact he appears to be in advanced talks with other sides means he is an unlikely option.
“Another home grown right back who has been capped twice by England is Kyle Walker-Peters of Southampton. This deal could be supported by The Saints interest in Flynn Downes and Danny Ings. A possible deal including one or both of those as part of the package could be tempting for Southampton who of course will be reluctant to sell the player as they try to cement their Premier League place.
“Coincidentally, we have also watched Ipswich’s right back Harry Clarke whilst scouting on the other flank Leif Davies.”
Ex also advised that there is still interest in Jacob Greaves of Hull City, with a valuation of the club expected and a subsequent decision on any potential pursuit.
“Jacob Greaves still remains a target too and the club will be making a decision soon on to how much they value player,” stated Ex.
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