Leroy: Payet’s here for long term – he’s priceless

Leroy Rosenior has told the West Ham board to make sure they “stick another £20 million minimum on whatever offers they might receive ” for Dimtri Payet.

The former Irons striker doesn’t believe the maestro will leave the club anyway but said: “I’m sure there will be interest – blimey, the bloke is a genius after all!”

ClaretandHugh’s chief analyst said: “I’m loathe to put a value on him because he’s priceless to us and I do believe here’s here for a good long time. He’s on a water tight contract and a very good one at that.

“There is absolutely no reason for him to leave for one of the so called big clubs because West Ham have shown that they are more than capable of becoming one of them over the next 18 months.

“Dimitri is already loved by the fans and the number one name on the team sheet. I think you will find that although he’s rising 29 he will be around for a long time because he’s total professional and keeps himself in top order.

“However, should a club come in and offer say £40 million I reckon the board should ask for £60 million. I see nothing other than Payet remaining here and being our inspiration as we enter Europe – which we will – and I can see no way in the world the board will sell him.

“Without question he is already on the way to being remembered as one of our greatest players. I see no way he will want to leave as the best is just before us. West Ham is about to explode and he will be right at the centre of it.”