According to an exclusive report from TEAMtalk, Matty Longstaff could be set to leave Newcastle this summer, and West Ham are one of numerous clubs to have shown an interest in signing the 20-year-old.
Central midfield is clearly an area where the Hammers need to strengthen at the end of the season.
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If West Ham stay up, they should turn Tomas Soucek’s loan move to the London Stadium into a permanent one (The Guardian).
If they cannot get that deal over the line, however, Longstaff would be a decent alternative to the Czech. Especially on a free transfer.
The Hammers won’t have things all their own way, however.
TEAMtalk claims that along with West Ham, Borussia Dortmund, Ajax, Club Brugge, Inter Milan, Atalanta, Arsenal and Everton all want to sign the Newcastle midfielder.
Stats
Longstaff has scored three goals in 13 appearances for Newcastle so far this season (Transfermarkt).
In seven Premier League appearances, the 20-year-old has averaged 0.4 tackles, 0.7 interceptions, 0.4 clearances and 1.6 dribbles per game (Who Scored).
The Magpies ace is obviously still very rough around the edges, but he clearly has a lot of talent. He would be a decent addition to the West Ham squad.
But the Hammers will have their work cut-out if they are to sign the Newcastle youngster, considering the size and stature of some of the clubs also thought to be in the race.