According to Voetbal 24, West Ham could now land long-term target Hans Vanaken after their efforts to sign him over the summer were unsuccessful.
The Belgian news outlet claim that the 28-year-old and his wife were keen on a move to London when West Ham were initially interested.
However, Vanaken ended up staying with Club Brugge after they offered him a new – and ‘thick’ – contract, as Voetbal 24 describe it.
Now though, the 9-cap Belgium international is unhappy at Club Brugge, and no longer feels appreciated by the Pro League outfit.
As a result, Voetbal 24 say it will be his last season in Belgium if Premier League clubs come knocking again.
Voetbal 24 add that Club Brugge would ask for €20 million (£17 million) if clubs come back in for Vanaken.
Now, this is very encouraging news for West Ham and David Moyes.
The Irons were clearly keen on signing the Neerpelt-born maestro, having submitted an offer worth over €15 million (£12.7 million) according to HLN.
In our view, Vanaken could be another Tomáš Souček for Moyes.
Standing at 6ft 4in, the Belgian possesses a similar, lanky stature to the 33-cap Czech Republic international.
He also seems to offer a similar goal threat to Souček.
This season, Vanaken has netted 11 goals for Club Brugge from midfield, two more than Souček’s tally of nine.
If Moyes can sign him this time around, and add him to Declan Rice and Souček, West Ham could have an even better midfield on their hands.
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