West Ham are tonight locked into talks with Anderlecht to make Cheikhou Kouyaté their big summer signing.
Having been given permission to talk to th
e player, the club’s negotiators have all but agreed a deal with the central defender who is desperately keen to sign up at the Boleyn.
However, the Hammers have to agree a fee with the Belgian club and at the moment the two clubs are struggling to agree the figure.
Valencia had earlier offered around £7.5 million for the 24 year old but Cheikhou wants to continue his career in the Premier League.
ClaretandHugh understands the Hammers offer may be shy of that but talks are continuing in the hope of resolving the problem.
A source told us a few minutes ago: “The player wants to come but there seems to be a problem with the fee.”
West Ham ‘locked’ in talks with Defender??
Can’t say impressed with their transfer activity to date – Mauro Zarate seems like another who’s been loaned out left, right and centre – not much of a recommendation – time will tell!
We don’t need another defender. Tomkins and Reid are a good partnership. I would prefer budget was spent on other positions such as left back where we need it more. I’m happy with zarate. Quality two footed player. Silky skills. He was decent in prem six years ago or whenever it was and he was only twenty one back then similar to ravel Morrison. Can only be a better player for his experiences over the last few years