West Ham extend invitation to Liam Kelly as they look to sign record-breaking teenager

West Ham are taking a look at the youth market this transfer window as they eye future-proofing life in East London.

The Irons are famously known for their successful academy program, which unearthed plenty of gems, including now-Premier League winner Declan Rice.

Creating a foundation for young talent to prosper is certainly an excellent building block for any English side.

And now, the Hammers will be hoping to use that to their advantage with their sights set on Derry City prospect Liam Kelly.

At just 15 years of age, Kelly has already had his first taste of competitive senior football.

And that fact has thrust him into the spotlight amid the opening of the transfer window.

What has been said about West Ham's interest in Liam Kelly?

West Ham are focusing on their senior team, but that does not mean work for the academy cannot be completed at the same time.

The scouts at the Academy of Football are seemingly doing just that this transfer window.

The Daily Mail has shared that West Ham is one of three sides tracking the Derry City prospect.

Kelly recently made headlines by becoming the Irish club's youngest-ever senior player in a competitive game at just 15 years old.

He came off the bench for Derry City against Shamrock Rovers, who are set to compete in the UEFA Champions League qualifying rounds.

However, the Hammers do face stiff competition for his signature with it being said that Nottingham Forest and Brighton are in the mix as well.

Kelly has also been invited to train with both Premier League sides as per the report.

A situation that could leave the Hammers chasing behind the pack in any negotiations.

How West Ham could convince Kelly to join

While Kelly has previously stated via the Irish FA's website that his dream is to follow in the footsteps of Conor Bradley by playing in the Premier League, the Hammers don't need to look too far to gain an advantage.

The Irons' academy stands alone and as the official West Ham website states, it was built on "scouting, recruiting and developing the best young players."

Additionally, West Ham are ambitious, as shown by the ability to keep Nuno Espirito Santo at the club.

There will be plenty of confidence in Rush Green that a Premier League return is around the corner

And then, the Irons would be in an excellent position to allow Kelly to fulfill his dream.