West Ham Join ‘Queue’ To Sign Ex-Chelsea Academy Star But Rival PL Club Are Still In The ‘Lead’

West Ham are in a “queue” of Premier League clubs lining up to snap up Juventus winger Samuel-Iling-Junior, according to Calciomercato.com.

The Italian website claims that the Hammers will likely make a move for the England Under 21 international if he becomes available.

Iling-Junior is currently enjoying a spell of regular first-team football at Juve, having been picked ahead of  Filip Kostic on the left wing in two of the last three league games.

It has prompted speculation that the 20-year-old could sign a new contract. However, Calciomercato report that, even if he does put pen to paper on a new deal, he could still move clubs this summer.

Iling-Junior is keen on getting regular football

The winger came through Chelsea’s academy but he decided to leave as he believed he would get more first-team opportunities in Italy.

While Iling-Junior has made his breakthrough at senior level with Juve, manager Max Allegri has been reluctant to start him on a regular basis. In his 37 appearances for the first team, he has come on as a substitute on 31 occasions.

West Ham are not favourites to sign the winger

Calciomercato say that the Hammers, Tottenham and Everton are all interested in Iling-Junior but Brighton are the club who currently “lead” the way if the player opts to leave Serie A at the end of the season.

It should be pointed out that a lot could still change in the coming months. Considering that he has started more matches recently, there remains a decent chance that the England youth international will decide to stay where he is.

West Ham may also decide to prioritise other positions. The club are on the lookout for a new No.9 and they will also have to consider replacements for Lucas Paqueta if the Brazilian leaves the London Stadium for Manchester City.