West Ham to raid London rivals for international, shrewd tactic

West Ham United are leading the chase to sign Chelsea midfielder Danny Drinkwater on a loan deal for the rest of the season, according to the Mirror.

The Hammers have been short of options in the heart of their midfield all season, with the club relying on youngster Declan Rice in the boiler room.

The summer exit of Cheikhou Kouyate and subsequent injury to Carlos Sanchez has left West Ham short of bite and legs in the centre of the park.

Over recent years the Hammers fans have complained about a lack of creativity from deep or a player capable of putting their foot on the ball to control play.

Drinkwater certainly would be an upgrade in this department if he was fit and firing, with his possible addition a positive move for West Ham.

The England international has been frozen out at Chelsea by Maurizio Sarri and does not appear in the Italian’s plans despite the exit of Cesc Fabregas.

The report suggests West Ham are the frontrunners to land Drinkwater on loan before Thursday’s deadline in a move that would surely be deemed as a plus by the Hammers faithful.