Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville has backed West Ham to have a “good season” if they sign Manchester United duo Harry Maguire and Scott McTominay.

The Hammers have had a horrendous summer in the transfer market, with the club only expected to secure their first major signing just days before the start of the new campaign. Speaking on The Overlap Fan Debate, in partnership with Sky Bet, Neville claimed that the arrival of Maguire and McTominay could transform the fortunes of David Moyes’ side:

“He’s [Maguire] a really good defender and would be a fantastic signing. McTominay – he’s not Rice, but he’s not too far away from him in terms of profile and he’s a similar type of player.”

“If they get those two players in, they could have a good season, but they need those types of players in. If I were Erik ten Hag, I wouldn’t sell McTominay personally.”

West Ham are locked in negotiations with Manchester United

It is believed that the Irons have not had a bid rejected for Maguire, as first reported. An offer of around £30m was tabled and, while it falls short of the defender’s asking price, the Red Devils are prepared to continue talks.

The situation is slightly different with McTominay. West Ham are not thought to be close to matching the midfielder’s £40m to £45m valuation so an agreement is not within sight.

Deals for other players are being looked at

The Hammers’ recruitment department is working around the clock to secure signings before the transfer window closes on September 1st.

Ajax’s Edson Alvarez should sign on the dotted line imminently, while the club are also interested in buying Southampton’s James Ward-Prowse and Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher.

After Alvarez, though, it seems as if Maguire is the target closest to being snapped up.