By Dave Langton
West Ham’s hopes of signing Conor Gallagher from Chelsea on loan are fading.
The Hammers are reported to be in the race to sign the midfielder on a short-term deal. 
However, a top level source at the club has described the reports as “pure speculation”, with the Irons currently pursuing a deal to sign Hans Vanaken from Club Brugge.
Gallagher was exceptional on loan at Crystal Palace last season and forced his way into the England squad; while Gallagher is admired at the London Stadium, there is no contact between the two clubs as yet and no move has been made.
The two clubs do have a close relationship, though, with the Hammers signing Emerson from the Blues just this week and previously taking Kurt Zouma last summer.
Indeed, there is an expectation that Gallagher will stay at Chelsea but the Irons will continue to monitor his situation ahead of the final week of the transfer window.
The club would readily pounce if he were made available – Moyes is still keen on midfield reinforcements – but that feels unlikely at this stage.
As always, the club are open to taking opportunities that arise ahead of the transfer deadline and Gallagher could well be one of them, although that feels more like wishful thinking at this stage.