Report: West Ham keeping close eye on Sporting’s Cristiano Piccini

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West Ham United are reportedly showing interest in the Italian defender.

West Ham United are reportedly keeping close eye on Italian defender Cristiano Piccini, and are set to go to battle with Arsenal over his signature.

According to reports from Portugal’s media outlet, Sapo Desporto, the player has been watched by the two Premier League clubs on several occasions.

The 25-year-old started his youth career with Fiorentina but made only one senior appearance for the Viola before sealing a move to Real Betis in 2015.

After spending two good seasons with Betis, he made his move to Portugal giant Sporting Lisbon this summer.

West Brom had shown an interest in the former Livorno player as well, but the Baggies didn’t step up their interest with a concrete offer this summer.

The Italian defender has impressed in his seven appearances since his move to Sporting, and big clubs are now vying for his signature.

The Hammers have signed Pablo Zabaleta from Manchester City on a free transfer this summer, but the right full-back is one area where Slaven Bilic could be looking to bolster either in January or next summer.