West Ham are plotting a swoop for Burnley winger Dwight McNeil as David Moyes looks to add to his squad.
What’s the word?
That’s according to the Sun, who claim that West Ham are lining up a £10m bid for the winger, although Burnley are likely to want more than that for the player.
The Hammers face competition from Tottenham Hotspur for the 22-year-old this summer and Moyes will have to act fast to secure his signature.
Just imagine him and Bowen
West Ham will be looking at building on last season's success by making some headway into the transfer market and bringing in some high-quality players.
Moyes has made a good start, with the Premier League side securing the signings of Nayef Aguerd and goalkeeper Alphonse Areola, but surely more incomings will be required if the manager aims to replicate the side's excellent European run last season.
With a serious lack of depth in the attacking department, a move for McNeil makes sense. His main position is on the left wing but is equally adept in both a left midfield and wingback role too, which is a big bonus for Moyes.
Former Burnley boss Sean Dyche dubbed the winger “dangerous” and a “real talent” which should be enough to convince Moyes of his talents.
McNeil didn’t have the greatest of seasons in terms of goal involvements (zero goals and one assist) as Burnley ended their six-season stay in the Premier League with relegation in May, but he did display other attributes.
The 22-year-old created six big chances, making 1.3 key passes and 1.4 shots per match while also winning 54% of his duels.
Moyes could unleash McNeil on the left and Jarrod Bowen on the right and form an excellent wide partnership next season as the club aims to take the next step up in their development under the Scot.
Combine the former's mesmeric crossing ability with Bowen's finishing and it would surely be a match made in heaven.
A deal for the Burnley man might just be the catalyst for further attacking additions to the playing squad and another top six challenge.