West Ham United are reportedly interested in signing West Bromwich Albion star Craig Dawson this summer.
Dawson was arguably one of the Baggies’ star players last season. The defender impressed whether he was deployed at right-back or at centre-back and that is perhaps why BBC Sport reports that both Burnley and Everton are rivalling the Hammers for his signature.
However, with BBC Sport reporting that West Brom want in excess of £20 million, West Ham may well need the circumstances to change if they hope to pull off a deal that a large section of the fans will not either criticise or suggest is a major gamble given that Dawson has just experienced relegation and may not have too many years left at his peak.
But perhaps it may be a West Ham cult-hero who could be about to hand the Irons that potential boost given recent reports.
Collins remains a hugely popular figure amongst the Hammers faithful after making more than 200 appearances for the club across two spells. His final appearance for the Irons proved to be a hugely emotional affair, and the supporters showed their class by expressing their delight for the former Wales international after he was linked with a move to Burnley recently ahead of the Clarets’ Europa League campaign.
If Collins arrives at The Hawthorns this summer, then perhaps Darren Moore may be more willing to consider lowering Dawson’s asking price. If they sense that there is no chance that they will be able to get the best out of Dawson next term, then keeping him makes little sense – even if that means letting him leave for less than they are currently asking for.
And if Collins’ arrival proves to be the deal that convinces the Baggies to lower that asking price, and it ultimately paves the way for West Ham to make their move for Dawson for a lower price, then perhaps the Ginger Pele will become an even more of a hero to the Hammers faithful.
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