West Ham’s defensive restructure under Manuel Pellegrini shows no signs of coming to an end, as the Hammers look set for a major fight in the market.
Pellegrini’s side have been attributed with long-term interest in Newcastle United captain Jamaal Lascelles and, although the Magpies insist their defensive star will not be sold, a significant tussle may lie ahead.
The Northern Echo state that Everton are preparing their own bid for Lascelles, in the wake of reports that indicate West Ham have already had a bid in the region of £25m rejected for the 24-year-old.
Lascelles is showing no desire to leave Tyneside but the stance of Mike Ashley throughout his ownership has always been that every player has their price – and a bidding war could persuade the Magpies into a sale.
After seeing a bid rejected already, the report indicates that West Ham are preparing a second approach but Everton are also poised to make a move.
