According to Footmercato, West Ham United are interested in signing Strasbourg midfielder Jean-Ricner Bellegarde but face competition from Fiorentina.
The France U21 international has been heavily linked with a summer exit.
In an interesting twist, France Football claimed Fiorentina were eyeing Bellegarde back in May as a replacement for West Ham linked Erick Pulgar.
But now, the latest reports say the Hammers are rivalling La Viola for Bellegarde.
Bellegarde’s contact at Strasbourg expires in 2023. While the Ligue 1 side are protected, the player’s impressive form this past season has attracted interest.
The 22-year-old made 30 appearances in all competitions during 2019-20, posting one goal and one assist before the global health crisis prompted an early end to the French campaign.
Bellegarde is predominantly a holding midfielder. However, he is capable of pushing on as his energy and athleticism allows him to roam from box to box.
West Ham must look at strengthening their midfield options this summer.
Mark Noble turned 33 in May, while Jack Wilshere struggles with fitness and the talented Declan Rice continues to be the subject of transfer speculation.
The Hammers may see Bellegarde as an ideal option to bolster their options.
The former Lens man has plenty of potential, and in the current market, West Ham may seek a bargain fee for a player with a high re-sale value.
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