According to Italian website Tutto Mercato Web, West Ham could be set to pull-off something of a coup by signing Barcelona youngster Alen Halilovic on a season-long loan deal.
The 19-year-old Croatian international is regarded as one of the brightest young players in world football and had the pick of moves prior to his move from Dinamo Zagreb. He has already won seven caps for his national team and is expected to have a bright future in the game.
Halilovic is one of a number of promising young players who are set to leave Barcelona B, after the Catalan giants junior team were relegated to the third tier of the Spanish game. The Croatian youngster is believed to be keen on gaining experience at a high level and the Premier League could be the place for him to gain valuable first team experience.
The Hammers are also in the market for a new striker after Ecuadoran striker Enner Valencia picked up an injury in the Europa League qualifiers.
The East End club have been linked with QPR striker Charlie Austin, Atletico Madrid’s Raul Jimenez and even out-of-favour Manchester United star Javier Hernandez.
They are reported to have agreed a deal for Jimenez, but may have problems obtaining a work permit for the 24-year-old, as he does not meet the requirements to qualify for a visa.
Austin seems to be in-demand, with Newcastle also believed to be tracking the former-Poole Town star. It seems that Austin will still be plying his trade in the top-flight this season, even if his team are not.
Which striker should the Hammers be pursuing this summer?
