Belgian media report West Ham’s links with French forward, director confirms English interest

West Ham United were showing an interest in French forward Isaac Mbenza during the summer, according to claims in the Belgian media. The 20-year-old eventually signed for Standard Liege from Valenciennes in the last transfer window despite attention from the Premier League side.

Voetbal Nieuws have reported on comments Standard Liege sporting director Olivier Renard made in which he confirmed Mbenza was being tracked by clubs from England and Italy. However, Renard said they were able to sign the 20 year on a four-year deal because the 20-year-old wanted to move to the Jupiler League.

“He was followed by English and Italian teams, but he wanted to return to Belgium and signed for four years with us,” said the Standard Liege director.

Despite Renard not disclosing who the interested clubs from England and Italy, Voetbal Nieuws have confirmed West Ham were the ones showing an interest in the youngster. The forward positions have become something of a headache for West Ham manager Slaven Bilic.

The Hammers tried to sign AC Milan star Carlos Bacca in the summer but instead brought in Simone Zaza from Juventus. However, the forward has struggled to make an impact since arriving in England, and has yet to score for the East London side.

Bilic has also had to contend with the long-term injury to Andy Carroll, and bringing in Mdenza would have provided cover in the attacking areas.