West Ham United have been fairly busy in the opening weeks of the transfer window as they look to strengthen their squad for next season.
For instance, the Hammers have already made one signing, with Brazilian winger Luis Guilherme joining the Premier League club from Palmeiras in June.
West Ham are reportedly also closing in on goalkeeper Wes Foderingham, and Wolves captain Max Kilman is also said to be a target for Julen Lopetegui’s side.
Now, the Hammers have apparently set their sights on a midfielder who played at the 2022 World Cup and who appears keen on a big move.
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West Ham target Ismael Kone keen on move away from Watford
The player in question is Watford’s Ismael Kone, one of the brightest players in the Championship.
According to Sky Sports journalist Dharmesh Sheth, the Canada international is on the radar of West Ham, Roma and Marseille.
In addition, Kone – who is currently representing his nation at the Copa America – is said to be keen on a move to a top European league.
“West Ham, Roma and Marseille all interested in Watford midfielder Ismael Kone,” Sheth said on Sky Sports.
“Kone is keen on a move as he wants to play in a top European League.
“Incoming Marseille boss Roberto de Zerbi is understood to be a big admirer of the player.”
Who is West Ham target Kone?
Ismael Kone is a 22-year-old midfielder who has been with Watford since January 2023, moving from MLS club Montreal for a reported £6.8million.
The 6ft 2in ace has made 63 appearances for the Hornets, registering four goals and four assists. He has also won 19 caps for Canada and played at the 2022 World Cup.
In 2022, Football Talent Scout’s Jacek Kulig likened Kone’s style of play to that of Manchester City, Barcelona and Ivory Coast legend Yaya Toure.
Kulig, writing on X, also said Kone’s strengths are his pace, power, athleticism, tackling, passing, vision, technique and work rate.
Kone looks like he would be a good shout for West Ham, and they would certainly fancy their chances of getting a deal over the line.