Hammers eyeing Leeds bargains

By Dave Langton

West Ham are keeping a close eye on Leeds’ situation as they slide ever closer to the relegation zone, having made moves for both Raphinha and Kalvin Phillips in the January transfer window.

Leeds are currently 16th in the Premier League table after Monday’s 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace.

That result has left Leeds five points clear of Everton in 18th but they have a nightmare run-in, with games against Manchester City, Arsenal, and Chelsea on the bounce followed by clashes with Brighton and Brentford.

The Hammers are watching with interest ahead of the summer, particularly in case Jesse Marsch’s side drop into the Championship.

Should they be relegated, deals will surely be there to be done for both Raphinha and Phillips, and the Hammers may be able to launch cut-price moves.

The Brazilian has also been linked with Barcelona, while a deal to sign Phillips would not be easy either, with half of the Premier League likely to be interested in Declan Rice’s England team-mate.