West Ham United and Southampton are in a Championship battle to sign Watford‘s Imrân Louza this summer.
Last season, the midfielder starred for Watford, scoring seven goals and contributing 10 assists from 47 matches.
His impressive performances have seen several clubs take notice, including West Ham and Southampton.
Last November, Louza expressed his desire to leave Watford in January or this summer. He’s still at Vicarage Road and would be keen to fulfil his wish in this window.
West Ham and Southampton keen
The Championship duo can fulfil the France-born Morocco international’s transfer wish.
Africa Foot report the Hammers and Tonda Eckert’s side have monitored him for a while and are ‘pushing hard’ to secure the 27-year-old’s services.
West Ham United and the Saints are ‘eager to move forward with discussions to reach an agreement for his transfer’.
There could be a battle brewing between the two English clubs to sign the Watford star.
West Ham have edge over Southampton
According to the report, Imrân Louza’s entourage are favouring the London club over Southampton.
West Ham United’s project under Nuno Espírito Santo is appealing to the Watford man and his representatives. This gives the Hammers an advantage over Tonda Eckert’s side.
The outlet states: ‘West Ham intends to capitalise on the preference expressed by Louza’s entourage to gain an early advantage in this transfer saga.’
However, the report makes it clear it’s not the midfielder’s final decision. The two clubs will face fierce competition from other clubs. The Watford player is also on Crystal Palace, Paris FC, Como and Ajax’s radar.
Louza isn’t opposed to leaving Watford this summer and his camp are considering all options before deciding his next destination.
Africa Foot end their report by stating: ‘While his entourage seems to favour a move to West Ham, other European offers will also be considered before a final decision is made. The upcoming discussions could therefore be crucial for the future of the Moroccan.’
Key transfer points
- West Ham and Southampton pushing hard to sign midfielder
- Louza likely to leave Watford, months after expressing transfer desire
- Entourage favours Hammers over Saints
- Other clubs also keen, player yet to make final decision
