West Ham United have shown interest in KV Mechelen goalkeeper Gaëtan Coucke, who could be available on the cheap in the summer.
That’s according to Het Nieuwsblad, who say the Hammers are one of three clubs to ‘show interest’ in the 23-year-old goalkeeper.
They explain that the Belgian side are ‘looking to break’ the goalkeeper’s contract and get him signed to a new deal after Coucke silently worked his way up to the number one spot at the club.
Having been second choice last year, he is now undisputed and ‘it goes without saying’ that Mechelen would like the youngster to continue.
They have indicated to him that they are considering a contract extension, although the Belgian club do have an option to extend his current deal, which expires next summer.
However, it remains to be seen whether the player will sign ‘so easily’ and he ‘has interest’ from West Ham, Reims and Torino.
If he were to extend now, he would ‘ruin the chance’ of an ‘attractive transfer’, particularly as he is currently valued at around €750,000.
Belgium boss Roberto Martinez already handed him a call up in November last year, and that is key in the player’s thinking.
He realises that a transfer abroad to the likes of West Ham could help him to establish himself in the national team picture in future.
Hence, he is keen not to limit his options, which may force Mechelen to sell if he indicates he doesn’t want to sign a new deal.
