According to reports in The Telegraph, West Ham United could face competition from Manchester United in the race to sign out-of-favour Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart this summer, but they are still the favourites to get the stopper.

What’s the word, then?

Well, the story suggests that the Irons are keen to bring Hart to the London Stadium on a loan deal to become their new number one, and that the 30-year-old is keen to link up with the east London outfit.

However, if Manchester United were to sell David De Gea to Real Madrid before the start of next season, then Red Devils manager Jose Mourinho would be keen on signing the England international too.

It seems unlikely that he would move for the stopper if De Gea stays at Old Trafford, particularly as he has Sergio Romero in reserve already and the fact that Hart will want to be playing regularly.

Would Hart be happy with a loan deal?

The Telegraph say that the 30-year-old would probably prefer a permanent move in order to kick-start his career and definitely know where he is going to be for the next few seasons at least, but if the deal with West Ham is a loan with a view to a permanent deal then that would probably work too.

If De Gea does, would City do business with United?

While Jose Mourinho would love to take a player from City that is so well-liked by the supporters, the chances of the two doing business considering they could be Premier League title rivals next season seems very unlikely.

Is Hart’s England place really under threat?

It certainly could be, yes.

The 30-year-old came under scrutiny after conceding two almost identical free-kicks from Leigh Griffiths in the Three Lions’ recent 2-2 draw with Scotland, while he was also at fault in the defeat to Iceland at Euro 2016.

With the likes of Fraser Forster, Jack Butland and Jordan Pickford all pressing him, his number one spot is certainly under threat.

What’s the verdict, then?

Well, unless David De Gea goes to Real Madrid then there is no deal to be done between Manchester City and Manchester United for Joe Hart, and it would be hugely unlikely even if they did sell the Spaniard.

West Ham certainly remain in pole position to get the stopper and his arrival could be a big statement of intent after a disappointing campaign.

https://video.footballfancast.com/video-2015/fm90sc-whufc.mp4