According to The Sun, West Ham United have taken Portsmouth talent Charlie Bell on trial ahead of a potential deal.
It’s claimed that Bell is spending a week training with West Ham as he weighs up his options having been told he won’t be kept at Pompey.
The 18-year-old is considered to be a real talent, but Pompey’s financial situation means he is being allowed to leave for nothing.
Brighton and Hove Albion are also thought to be interested, but West Ham are now taking him on trial to try and win the race.
Bell has been given the green light to go and seek another club, with the Hammers now seemingly favourites to win his signature.
Bell has come up through the Pompey ranks, and has made three EFL Trophy appearances this season having shown promise.
The central midfielder could be one for the future, and West Ham are sensing a bargain as they take him in for training.
Bell could join their development ranks, and with Mark Noble almost 34, it’s a great time for West Ham to be thinking about developing younger midfield talents, such as Bell.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
