West Ham United have reportedly turned down the chance to sign Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Yves Bissouma this summer.
David Moyes is set to target a new midfielder ahead of the 2022-23 campaign, following the retirement of club legend Mark Noble, while the long-term futures of Tomas Soucek and Declan Rice are believed to be uncertain.
Bissouma is one of the most sought-after midfielders in the Premier League and has impressed under Graham Potter since joining the Seagulls in 2018, making 124 appearances across all competitions.
The 25-year-old has recently hinted at a potential switch to Arsenal, while the likes of Manchester United, Liverpool and Aston Villa have all been credited with an interest.
According to Claret and Hugh, West Ham, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur are among a number of clubs who have been approached by the player's agent ahead of a proposed move this summer.
The Mail international is valued at around £25m due to his contract expiring in a years' time, but the report adds that the Hammers have decided against making an offer for the Brighton star.
West Ham are instead set to prioritise a move for Southampton captain James Ward-Prowse, although luring the 27-year-old to the London Stadium could prove challenging as he still has four years remaining on his contract, which he renewed just 10 months ago.
Oliver Thomas
