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West Ham are closing in on the signature of Metz midfielder Alpha Toure, according to reports in Senegal.

The Hammers were linked with the player during the January transfer window, and the 20-year-old spoke out about the interest at the time:

“It’s always flattering when clubs like West Ham or Besiktas are interested in me, but I’m under contract with Metz, and I’m very focused on my season. I leave that to my representatives and the club. I’m focused on the pitch.”

“As long as I’m wearing the Metz jersey, I’ll give 100 per cent. The Premier League is a very intense league, with a lot of pace and physicality. It’s a dream for many players. But one thing at a time.”

With Metz having been relegated from France’s top flight, DSports claim that the Hammers have an “agreement in principle” to sign the Senegalese youth international this summer for “nearly” £6m.

West Ham had already had a bid rejected for a similar amount

It should be noted that reports at the beginning of this year claimed that the Irons had tabled an offer of around £6m, but the proposal was turned down at the time.

After Metz’s relegation, though, they have many reconsidered the bid, with the knowledge that they need funds in order to balance the books.

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What do fans need to know about Toure?

The midfielder hasn’t been in Europe that long, having moved to Metz from his native Senegal less than two years ago.

Toure made his first-team debut against Bastia in a 1-1 draw in August 2024, but he only really established himself as a regular starter by March 2025, just prior to their promotion from Ligue Two.

He has started 16 games this campaign, having played the full 90 minutes in the 3 league victories that Metz have managed.

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