Enner Valencia: 'Transfer speculation makes me want to improve'

West Ham United striker Enner Valencia has welcomed transfer speculation linking him to Chelsea, admitting that it spurs him on to improve as a footballer.

The Blues are said to be planning a summer bid for the 25-year-old, who joined the Hammers last summer from Mexican side Pachuca.

Valencia is quoted by the Daily Mail as saying: "I found out about [the interest] from the social networks and from what my teammates were saying.

"If a team like Chelsea is interested in me, it's a big compliment. It makes me want to keep on getting better."

Valencia has made 13 Premier League starts for Sam Allardyce's side this season, scoring three goals and adding a further three assists.