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Report: West Ham considering reigniting interest in Southampton striker Shane Long

West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic (REUTERS)
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West Ham United wanted to sign Southampton striker Shane Long last summer, and could now make another move, according to a report.

Southampton's Shane Long applauds the fans after the matchSouthampton’s Shane Long

A report in the London Evening Standard has suggested that West Ham may well look to reignite their interest in Southampton striker Shane Long this summer as Slaven Bilic looks to inject more pace into his squad.

The Hammers have endured a mixed season, and could still finish anywhere between eighth and 16th heading into the final two games of the Premier League season.

One of the main reasons for their struggles has been the difficulties that their strikers have endured, with their highest scoring forward, Andy Carroll, boasting just seven goals in the top flight this term.

Unsurprisingly therefore, Bilic is keen to bolster his attacking options this summer, and may well look to target Saints star Long – who he wanted last year – as well as Chelsea’s Michy Batshuayi, according to the London Evening Standard.

West Ham United manager Slaven BilicWest Ham United manager Slaven Bilic

Long appears to have had a frustrating spell at St Mary’s this year. Despite making 30 appearances in the top flight this season, he has started just nine times.

While he has scored just three times in the league, he is arguably the kind of signing that Hammers fans would largely be fairly pleased with given his tireless displays.

Saints supporters can never question how much effort the Republic of Ireland international puts in, and for that reason, he is likely to be a great addition to the Irons’ ranks if they decide to pursue a move and manage to get a deal done.

Southampton's Shane Long in action with Hull City's Harry Maguire