ExWHUemployee names Cole Palmer as top West Ham United target as permanent deal update emerges
Manchester City youngster Cole Palmer remains a top target for West Ham in the final stages of the transfer window, according to ExWHUEmployee.
The club insider reported on Tuesday [15 August] via The West Ham Way that a move for Palmer has been mentioned in ongoing talks between United and City over a deal for Lucas Paqueta.
It is claimed that Palmer could be available to purchase on a permanent basis this summer, with West Ham having until 11pm on 1 September to agree a fee.
“At this stage, it’s understood the talks are surrounding a permanent deal rather than a loan,” said the Hammers insider.
Another wide option
United have stepped up their transfer activity over the past week by signing Edson Alvarez and James Ward-Prowse, helping to offset the departure of star midfielder Declan Rice earlier in the window.
A new centre-back and at least one new attacker to replace Gianluca Scamacca are also on David Moyes’ wishlist, even more so if Paqueta departs for City.
With Jarrod Bowen now effectively playing as a striker, Moyes needs more options on the right-hand side of attack.
Palmer featured 18 times for City in the Premier League and Champions League combined last season, proving to be a good squad option for Pep Guardiola.
The 21-year-old was part of England’s successful Euro U21 squad in the summer and returned to club action with a bang by scoring a sublime goal for City in their Community Shield clash with Arsenal, which ultimately ended in a disappointing penalty shootout defeat.
Guardiola admitted last week that he is unsure whether Palmer will remain at the Etihad Stadium beyond this summer, but it is unclear what type of price region the Citizens value the youngster.
On the basis of what he has showed in glimpses for City, the European champions’ loss could very much be West Ham’s gain.
In other West Ham news, an update has been provided on who the Irons could move for after withdrawing their interest in Harry Maguire.