Pellegrini to face first challenge as new West Ham boss

West Ham United will have a fight to keep hold of Marko Arnautovic this summer, with Manchester United rumoured to be interested, according to a report in the Arab News.

The media outlet are claiming that Jose Mourinho is keen on reuniting with his former player at Old Trafford, having been impressed with his performances.

The Austria international, who was named the Hammer of the Year by fans, has proven to be influential to the side and played a key role in their survival efforts this season.

Having scored 11 goals for the London Stadium outfit, Mourinho is said to have been impressed with the 29-year-old’s ability to operate on his own when left up top.

Manuel Pellegrini will like want to keep Arnautovic in his team as he prepares to take over as the new manager and will be encouraged that the winger still has four years left on his current deal.

The Chilean, who took over last week from David Moyes, is expected to make a number of changes at the Irons as he tries to bring an attractive style of play to the side.

It is believed he could be set to undertake a complete rebuilding job of the London Stadium outfit, with each position to be added to and strengthened, whilst he will also look to get rid of anyone he deems as deadweight.

The Hammers fans will be looking forward to the reign of Pellegrini and will hope the former Premier League winner can help to guide the east London club to European football, as well as being able to keep Arnautovic at the club.