West Ham are not among the frontrunners to sign Monaco midfielder Youssouf Fofana, according to L’Equipe.
The Hammers were heavily linked with the France international last summer, but Tim Steidten’s attempts to sign the player were reportedly blocked by manager David Moyes.
Now, it appears that Fofana has other suitors pursuing him, with it being claimed that four teams have held talks with the 25-year-old’s entourage in recent weeks.
L’Equipe say that Arsenal, Atletico Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan are in the mix to secure his signature.
Fofana is available for a knockdown price
One of the key reasons that the Frenchman is in such high demand is due to the fact that he is closing in on the final year of his contract at Monaco.
It means the Ligue One side will not be able to hold out for a sizeable fee, with some reports even suggesting that Fofana could be let go for around €20m (£17m).
Why are West Ham not actively pursuing the midfielder?
Circumstances have changed since Steidten suggested buying Fofana last year. Another holding midfield player, Edson Alvarez, has been brought in since then, so a new no.6 is not top of the list of priorities for the technical director.
The Irons are expected to make moves for up to six players over the coming weeks and months, but other positions need to be strengthened first. Multiple centre-backs may have to be recruited, along with a new striker, a left-winger, a no.10 and potentially a right-back.
With West Ham also having to stay within a strict budget due to the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability rules, it means Steidten may feel that €20m could be better spent in another area of the pitch. Fans may disagree with that opinion, though, considering Fofana’s ability and his availability for such a low fee.
