West Ham United have been linked with a move for Kilmarnock youngster Bobby Wales ahead of the summer transfer window, according to a report from FootballTransfers.

The Hammers are not alone in their pursuit, however – Vincent Kompany’s Burnley are also thought to be interested. Despite this, the Clarets’ Premier League status is currently hanging in the balance, as they sit 19th in the league table – should they suffer relegation, it would surely put the Hammers in the driver’s seat.

Last year, Wales won Kilmarnock’s Rising Academy Star award – upon receiving the prize, he said [via the Kilmarnock Standard]: “It was amazing to get the Rising Academy Star award, being a Killie fan makes it even better. I felt like I had a good season, getting some games with the first team was an amazing experience.

“It’s special coming through the ranks as a fan, last season was my first professional season so I knew I had to challenge myself. I’m big height-wise for my age I guess, but I am still young and have plenty to learn. All the advice I have been given has been a lot of help. I used to sit and watch from the stands dreaming about playing for Killie.”

What would Bobby Wales bring to West Ham United?

This season, Wales has been out on loan with Alloa Athletic in Scottish League One. He has led an excellent individual campaign for the Wasps, netting 12 goals and notching up four assists over the course of 24 league appearances.

A well-rounded, hard working forward, Wales has an impressively complete skillset for such a young forward. Not only is he adept at finding the back of the net, he is also able to create chances for his teammates.

The Irons will be in need of a striker soon – Michail Antonio isn’t getting any younger and Danny Ings’ participation this season has been minimal. As such, bringing in promising centre-forwards such as Wales makes a lot of sense.