West Ham United have stunned everyone by submitting an offer for coveted Rennes winger Jeremy Doku, according to a report from French sports media outlet Foot Mercato.
Reports suggest that the Hammers’ initial bid for Doku was rejected – however, talks between West Ham and Rennes regarding Doku’s availability are still ongoing. Currently, Rennes are holding out for a bid of £47 million or more.
Despite this, Doku is a high-sought after talent and has been targeted by a number of high-profile clubs from across Europe. If the Irons want to seal a deal for the Belgian, they will have a fight on their hands.
Who else, besides West Ham, are interested in a move for Jeremy Doku?
West Ham will need to fend off major interest from massive clubs if they want to complete a deal for the Belgian international star. Premier League champions Manchester City are heavily linked with a move for the player, as they look to find a replacement for Saudi Arabia-bound Riyad Mahrez.
They aren’t the only one – he has also been linked with a move to Barcelona over the course of the ongoing summer transfer window. Clubs such as Newcastle United, Liverpool and Chelsea have all been reportedly interested in the 21-year-old in the past. Despite this, it is unknown if any of them are targeting him in the current transfer window.
Do the Hammers need a new winger in their squad?
Currently, West Ham have just three wingers in their senior team – Jarrod Bowen, Said Benrahma and Maxwel Cornet. As such, adding another wide man to their ranks should be a high priority on their list.
On the right wing, the Irons are especially sparse. Only Bowen is a natural fit for that role in their first team at the moment – due to this, the potential acquisition of Doku would not only be an eye-catching signing, it would also make perfect sense logistically.
Moreover, following the £105 million sale of now-former captain Declan Rice, the Hammers have plenty of money to spare – therefore, even an expensive plater such as Doku should be within their price range.