West Ham round-up: Juventus striker linked; new contract for defender; experienced Premier League full-back wanted

Tue 14 March 2017 8:45, UK

As the club continue their hunt for a prolific striker, claim that the Hammers could battle Besiktas in a pursuit for Juventus striker Mario Mandzukic as he continues to disappoint in Serie A, with only seven goals from 34 appearances so far this season in all competitions.

The 30-year-old would fit the Hammers’ style of play at present and could be the perfect alternative to Andy Carroll. Slaven Bilic, who gave Mandzukic his debut with both Croatia under 21s and the national team’s senior side, could help to get a move across the line given the clear relationship between the two.

Bilic is also keen to tie down the services of his current players, say the , with Winston Reid set to put pen to paper on a new deal despite having signed a six-year contract as recently as 2015. The 28-year-old is believed to be in line for a deal worth £70,000 after becoming a key figure this season.

The 28-year-old has missed just one game when he has been available this season and has been one of the few positives despite the side having a leaky backline this season which has contributed to their struggles. The new agreement will see him take his wages level to his new partner Jose Fonte.

The claim that another experienced Premier League figure could be on his way to the London Stadium with all eyes set on Pablo Zabaleta, as it seems possible that Pep Guardiola will decide not to offer the Argentina international a new contract at Manchester City when his current deal expires in the summer.

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Zabaleta would seemingly represent an upgrade on Bacary Sagna, who has also been linked, but would resolve a real problem position for Bilic with Cheikou Kouyate currently filling in on the right of defence.

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West Ham round-up: Juventus striker linked; new contract for defender; experienced Premier League full-back wanted