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West Ham have been rocked by the news of Manuel Lanzini’s long-term injury absence, which will force the Argentina international to miss the World Cup in Russia.

The fan-favourite midfielder will also be on the sidelines for at least the first few months of Manuel Pellegrini’s tenure at the London Stadium, with some suggestions that he could be sidelined for the entirety of the 2018/19 season.

Lanzini’s injury now looks set to alter the club’s approach to the summer transfer market, as The Guardian states the Hammers have stepped-up their pursuit of Norwich City ace James Maddison.

The England U21 international is seen as the ideal recruit to fill the void left by Lanzini’s departure but West Ham can anticipate a fierce fight in the market.

New Everton boss Marco Silva is keen on bringing the starlet to Goodison Park, as he prepares to make an opening offer, while Leicester City are also attributed with interest.

West Ham saw a £12m offer for the 15-goal ace knocked back in January, with Norwich looking for at least £20m for the youngster’s signature.