Hoffenheim sporting director Alexander Rosen has suggested that the Bundesliga club will consider selling left-back David Raum this summer.

The German international has been linked with West Ham, along with the likes of Manchester United, Manchester City, Newcastle, Chelsea, as well as Borussia Dortmund, and Rosen says Hoffenheim won’t stand in the player’s way if a good enough offer arrives:

“If a top club comes and he gets the opportunity, then, of course, we will sit down with him. In the end, it’s always about an exchange based on trust.”

Reports in the German media have indicated that Hoffenheim may demand up to €40m (£34m) for Raum, which is a steep figure for the Hammers, especially after their outlay on Nayef Aguerd, as well as the impending deal to sign Alphonse Areola on a permanent basis.

However, a quality long-term replacement for Aaron Cresswell is required, and Raum is also someone who could come in and compete for a place in the first team straight away. For now, it does appear to be a long shot, but we shall see how this story develops in the coming weeks.