West Ham United have made a bid to sign Cardiff City goalkeeper Neil Etheridge, as reported by Football Insider.

What's the story?

It is suggested that the initial sum offered by West Ham is £6m, which could rise to a potential £7m with add-ons.

There had been previous reports that they would be going in for Darren Randolph, with ExWHUemployee suggesting it on the West Ham Way Podcast 163.

However, following Lukasz Fabianski's injury against Sheffield United and concerns about the Republic of Ireland international, who had the same injury, they are moving on to Etheridge.

The Philippines international was left on the bench for Cardiff's 0-0 draw against Swansea City.

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Serious situation

This change of direction shows that the Hammers are finally beginning to realise the severity of their goalkeeping situation.

When the club were pursuing a move for Randolph, FFC suggested that this was an indication of their failure to learn their lessons from other struggles with injury after previously signing players such as Andy Carroll and Jack Wilshere who already had issues.

David Martin had also sustained the same injury as Fabianski, so it seemed foolish to bring Randolph back to the club, adding to the potential injury list.

The current move seems far more reasonable and with it being made so swiftly after the injury sustained by the number 1, it shows that West Ham are finally appreciating how important it is that a new man is brought in.

Call yourself a West Ham expert? How much did each of these January signings cost?

They cannot afford to get back into a position where they are relying on Roberto to fill their goal. He conceded 17 goals in eight league games after making a plethora of errors, notably against Burnley and Newcastle United.

West Ham simply must sort out this position if they are to start climbing the table, which is a necessity, as they currently sit just one point above the relegation zone.

The decision to move for Etheridge shows that they are finally beginning to ensure this problem is dealt with.

Meanwhile, West Ham fans fumed over ExWHUemployee's transfer update.