West Ham winger Said Benrahma is currently set to return to the club when the players return for pre-season, its been reported by ExWHUEmployee.

The Algerian international spent last season on loan at French side Lyon, who its understood are eager to secure on a permanent deal – although a current embargo in place is causing significant doubt at this stage over the players future. It is unclear as to why Lyon seem to be bidding for other players despite this embargo but it may be each case is approved on an individual basis but this is yet to be confirmed.

Reporting on The West Ham Way Patreon, our Podcast co-host and club insider Ex has reported that the situation at present is meaning that Benrahma is expected to return to West Ham for pre-season when the players return to work under new coach Julen Lopetegui next month.

“At the moment the future of Said Benrahma is undecided. Lyon, where he was on loan last season, wish to sign him permanently,” stated Ex. “Lyon however have to get permission for transfers under an embargo they are placed in. As of yesterday this hasn’t happen and the Algerian international remains a West Ham player.

“The players are due back on the 3rd July and currently because he hasn’t been at an international tournament Benrahma will be expected to be there. It is unclear what the new manager’s opinions on the player are at this stage.”

Ex has also advised that recent reports in the press surrounding a potential investment from former US basketball player Shaquille O’Neal is currently unknown by the club.

“Rumours have broken this morning that top former basketball star Shaquille O’Neal is trying to buy a stake in the club having fallen in love with us after attending a game last season,” added Ex.

“The club are unaware of any interest from the superstar and no approach has been made directly to them or any of their shareholders yet. The club will wait and see if this interest should amount to anything but at this stage there hasn’t been any contact.”