West Ham were linked with Hull City ace late in the transfer window.
Hull City’s Harry Maguire celebrates after the game
Even after signing Jose Fonte in mid-January, West Ham were linked with a deal for centre-back Harry Maguire of Hull City.
The centre-back has been in outstanding form this season, and The Sun reported the Hammers were plotting a £9 million bid.
Hull were not willing to part with the defender amid a relegation battle, not for that price, and West Ham kept their money stashed away for the summer.
Maguire now is reportedly subject of interest from West Ham’s London rivals Tottenham Hotspur, with The Star reporting he is a £15 million target.
Tottenham are likely to have an advantage over West Ham by being able to offer Champions League football, and a chance of competing for the Premier League title.
West Ham would contend that Maguire may stand more chance of breaking into their first team if he signs, and it is a valid reason for him to join them, but Tottenham’s interest is certainly damaging for their hopes of landing the Hull man.
It pushes his price up and potentially alerts other top level suitors, complicating matters for the Hammers. Last summer Tottenham beat West Ham to the signing of striker Vincent Janssen, although this is a deal which is yet to pan out as a success for Spurs.
Everton are also reportedly already keen, The Sun reported last month along with Southampton, setting up a four way battle for Maguire’s signature. Hull could be laughing all the way to the bank in the summer, especially if Maguire helps keep them in the Premier League.
Arsenal’s Alexis Sanchez in action with Hull City’s Harry Maguire
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