West Ham United have long been linked with a move for Chelsea midfield outcast Ruben Loftus-Cheek.
West Ham lead chase for England star claims talkSPORT transfer specialist
David Moyes must strengthen his West Ham squad this summer with Jesse Lingard, a new striker and another central midfielder top priorities.
Declan Rice’s injury exposed a lack of depth in the middle of the park as West Ham’s Champions League bid faltered without their star man.
Another window, another link to Loftus-Cheek
It seems not a window goes by without West Ham being linked with Chelsea midfielder Loftus-Cheek.
The perienniel Hammers target has spent the season on loan at Fulham from Chelsea where he has made 21 starts and 29 appearances.
According to a report from The Express last month, Chelsea are open to selling the 25-year-old to West Ham this summer.
Now reliable West Ham insider ExWHUemployee has confirmed West Ham have been interested in the past.
Insider ExWHUemployee confirms past interest but claims West Ham have two big concerns
But Ex claims West Ham are concerned about two things.
“Yes we have been very keen on him in the past,” ExWHUemployee said on Twitter when asked if West Ham were considering the Chelsea midfielder.
“I think his wages and injuries are a concern.”
The England international was a real presence in the heart of Scott Parker’s midfield this season despite Fulham’s relegation.
He is incredibly technically gifted and has the ability to physically dominate opponents what with his 6ft 3in frame.
Loftus-Cheek has pace and power in abundance. He is very versatile as well.
Chelsea man could be perfect addition for Hammers but loan may be only viable option
But he has a questionable injury record and it is not clear how much Chelsea would demand for him.
Most of West Ham’s budget this summer will almost certainly be spent on a striker and trying to secure Jesse Lingard.
Loftus-Cheek could form a superb partnership in midfield alongside the likes of Rice and Tomas Soucek.
Chelsea have a history of loaning Loftus-Cheek out.
So perhaps that is an avenue West Ham could explore if money is an issue.
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