West Ham considering last-gasp loan approach, could be a masterstroke

West Ham United are considering a late loan approach for Chelsea striker Michy Batshuayi, according to Sky Sports.

The Hammers have been heavily touted with a move for Celta Vigo’s Maxi Gomez, but the consensus has been that the Uruguayan would stay in Spain until the summer – even if a deal is agreed.

West Ham fans received some positive news this week in that Marko Arnautovic has pledged his future to the club, putting an end to speculation that the Austrian could be sold in the January transfer window.

Despite this, it appears that Manuel Pellegrini wants to bring in another attacking reinforcement and there is little doubting that Batshuayi would be an exciting arrival for the Hammers.

The Belgium international has not been given a chance to impress at Stamford Bridge and with the capture of Gonzalo Higuain this month, he has fallen further down Maurizio Sarri’s pecking order.

West Ham will hope to land Batshuayi on a similar deal to the one that has seen him spend time at Borussia Dortmund and Valencia over the last 12 months.

The Hammers started the year with a win over Arsenal but have been poor in recent games, with elimination from the FA Cup at the hands of AFC Wimbledon a major low point in the campaign.

However, West Ham still have the ability to finish the season in the top half of the Premier League and could push to qualify for Europe – landing a striker of Batshuayi’s quality would increase their chances considerably.