West Ham have scouted Millwall defender Mahlon Romeo this season, according to The Daily Express.
Romeo is out of contract at the end of the season and West Ham have watched him in action this season.
The Hammers could offer the young right-back a controversial switch across London – a rare move considering the seriousness of the rivalry.
But a host of Championship clubs and Scottish Premiership side Rangers are also in the hunt for Romeo on a free transfer.
Who is Mahlon Romeo?
Westminster-born defender Romeo came up through the ranks at Arsenal and Gillingham before moving to Millwall in 2015.
The 23-year-old has already played well over 100 times for the Lions despite his young age, including 35 outings this season. And the Antigua and Barbuda international also has 12 caps for his national side.
Romeo is an attack-minded modern day full-back who has impressed in both League One and the Championship. He could now get his Premier League opportunity but that would mean leaving Millwall for London rivals West Ham.
Where could Mahlon Romeo fit in?
West Ham could be in the hunt for a new right-back this summer and Romeo would represent a similar deal to Ryan Fredericks.
The Irons plucked Fredericks from London neighbours Fulham on a free transfer after he impressed in the Championship.
And with Pablo Zabaleta’s contract expiring at the end of the season and Sam Byram likely to leave, Romeo could become Fredericks’ back-up.
Ben Johnson is another option at right-back but the teenager could head out on loan if Romeo arrives.
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