West Ham must strike before Newcastle star gains Euros exposure
Published:
If the latest in a seemingly unstoppable flow of West Ham transfer rumours holds true, then acting swiftly appears to be the most sensible course of action for Slaven Bilic and co.
The newest name in a rapidly expanding list to be linked with Hammers is that of Newcastle winger Andros Townsend.
Since permanently severing ties with Tottenham in January, where he was never fully appreciated, Townsend’s efforts in trying to keep the Magpies afloat have made him an instant hit on Tyneside.
Although his eye-catching displays ultimately proved to be futile where Newcastle’s Premier League survival was concerned, Townsend’s just rewards have arrived in the shape of a place in England’s provisional Euro 2016 squad.
This is the crux of the matter regarding any potential transfer. Squawka.com report Townsend’s contract with the relegated Toon has an £8m release clause written into it.
As yet it’s unclear whether this clause can be altered dependent on Townsend’s potential Euros involvement.
However, if the former Spurs wideman arrives in France and continues to flourish for the Three Lions as he has done in a sprinkling of caps to date, it’s crystal clear that West Ham will be greeted with stiff competition for his signature.
The player famously farmed out to nine separate clubs while still on Tottenham’s books, has grabbed his chances for England previously, scoring three times in 10 appearances.
Coupled with his recent form for the Geordies, many people would consider this strong evidence for a spot in the final 23-man contingent bound for France .
Townsend has finished the season by netting three Premier League goals since the start of April.
After debuting for Newcastle in February the forward has also averaged two more key passes per game and directly assisted two more goals according to Whoscored.com,.
Still only 24 years old, signing a potential England star for less than £10m may well be viewed as a steal for Bilic, who has so far acted very shrewdly in the market.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.
