West Ham United have reportedly eyed up Preston North End youngster Lewis Leigh, with the Hammers set to beat Everton to his signature.
The 17-year-old midfielder has caught the eye of Premier League clubs recently, after being scouted during his appearances for Preston's youth sides.
However, according to Football Insider, West Ham have firmed up their interest and reportedly agreed a deal already in order to jump the queue of clubs for his signature.
One of the sides that manager David Moyes has reportedly beaten to the midfielder is former club Everton, with the Toffees being amongst the top-flight clubs hugely impressed by his development.
Preston tied down Leigh to his first professional contract in August, until the summer of 2024, which ensures the Championship side will be in a far stronger bargaining position with interested clubs.
Leigh is yet to make a first-team appearance for North End, although he has made the bench on a couple of occasions over the past several months.
After being released by Liverpool in his younger days, the boyhood Preston fan joined the academy at the age of 14.
Matthew Tranter
