West Ham United are on the verge of completing a deal to sell Mohammed Kudus to fierce rivals Tottenham Hotspur.
That transfer has raised plenty of eyebrows, but it gives the Hammers some breathing room to pursue targets of their own.
One of the many names on their extensive shortlist is Stade de Reims midfielder Valentin Atangana.
However, Foot Mercato reports that the Hammers will face serious competition from RC Strasbourg for the highly rated French prodigy.
The 19-year-old is one of the most highly sought-after prospects in France this summer.
He’s considered one of the best young talents in the French top flight and is now a wanted man following an impressive campaign with Reims.
Atangana came through the youth ranks at Reims and has established himself in the first team. He has two years left on his contract but could be on the move this summer, with several clubs hot on his trail.
The France Under-21 international is a versatile midfielder and will fit into Graham Potter’s plans at West Ham, but the East Londoners could miss out if they don’t act fast.
Atangana could be a smart signing for West Ham
At 19, Atangana has already racked up 63 first-team appearances for Reims. He was a prominent figure in the Reims XI last season, featuring 41 times in all competitions.
His work rate off the ball is impressive. In 34 Ligue 1 games last term, he averaged 1.1 interceptions, two tackles, 3.4 ball recoveries, and 1.8 clearances per 90 minutes.
He also won 53% of his ground duels (averaging 3.9 per match) and 58% of his aerial battles (1.4 per 90).
The teenager is consistent and has enough experience to fit in like a glove at West Ham, but he’s slipping away from the Hammers.
Reports from France claim Strasbourg have already opened talks with Reims for the midfielder, while Bundesliga side VfB Stuttgart are also in the mix.
West Ham have been credited with an interest, but they haven’t made any formal moves yet.