West Ham are in the race to sign QPR attacker Eberechi Eze this summer and they do hold an advantage over the main competition for the frontman, Crystal Palace, should either side make a move for Eze.
The 22-year-old has enjoyed another stellar campaign in west London and there is an increasing realisation that the Hoops may well have to cash in on their prized asset this summer to raise some much-needed funds.
Football.London understands that Palace hold the upper hand in the early stages of the race for Eze’s signature with the Hammers not yet in a position to make any big offers for players as they need to sell to buy. There is a school of thought the club will find funds for Eze regardless, such is David Moyes' determination to get the attacker to sign in east London.
But one way West Ham could have an advantage, and it’s something they should be exploring, is throwing Jordan Hugill into any potential deal.
Hugill was on loan at Rangers last season and netted 15 times in the second tier and according to West London Sport, QPR would be interested in having him back once again but this time on a permanent basis.
Hugill was a Moyes signing in 2018 when the manager was first at the club for an eye watering £10million fee on January transfer deadline day but he hasn’t started a single Premier League game in east London, having two loan spells away at Middlesbrough and then with QPR.
QPR believe that Eze could fetch up to £20million to any potential suitors this summer and while Hugill’s value has decreased since his move to the capital from Preston North End, he could still be thrown in to shave a few quid off.
QPR are reportedly keen to have Hugill’s transfer as part of any deal and if Moyes is that keen to sign Eze then it should be something he should consider to try and get a move done.
Moyes hasn’t said whether Hugill will be a part of his plans for next season buit at 28, Hugill doesn’t fit the profile of player Moyes is typically looking for within his squad as he embarks on his first summer transfer window at the club.
The Hammers manager is targeting younger players with the likes of 22-year-old Eze and QPR teammate Ryan Manning on his radar, as well as Wigan’s Antonee Robinson and Brentford’s Said Benrahma this summer.
Moyes is looking to move on the likes of Felipe Anderson, Manuel Lanzini and Jack Wilshere this summer to raise funds and will also listen to suitable offers for Sebastien Haller.
