Hammers face rival for target

West Ham appear to be in a tug of war with Newcastle United for the signature of Middlesbrough’s Adama Traore.

According to national media reports Rafa Benitez has made his first move for the player after agreeing a deal for Christian Atsu – who was on loan to the club last season.

Now the Mail are reporting that the Spanish boss is in the market for another winger and is keen on Traore who will provide cover and competition for Matt Ritchie.

The Irons are known to hold an interest in Traore and remain in the mix despite the Spaniard appearing to embrace some of the  same problems in his game as Sofiane Feghouli.

He can show great speed and trickery but it has been noted by irons fans that his final touch all too often lets him down.

Both Newcastle and the Hammers may find this a difficult deal to do anyway as new Boro boss Gary Monk is understood to be a big admirer of Traore and not willing to let him leave.