West Ham have joined Tottenham in their pursuit of Everton attacker Kevin Mirallas, reports the Mirror.
The rapid Belgian was subject of interest from Spurs in January, but the Toffees were quick to rebuff their approach, wanting to keep one of their prized assets.
However, a down-season for Everton seeing them languish in mid-table mediocrity could see a number of their top players leave the club at the end of the season.
The 27-year-old indicated earlier in the year he would be interested in a “new challenge” away from Everton, which has alerted several clubs.
His Everton future was cast in doubt when was controversially substituted at half-time shortly after missing a penalty against West Brom in mid-January having brushed aside spot-kick specialist Leighton Baines in what was then a relegation six-pointer, but manager Roberto Martinez stated he was pulled off because of an injury, amid reports of a dressing room bust-up.
Mainly operating in wide areas, 26 goals in 99 appearances since joining from Olympiacos in 2012 is an impressive return, but Mirallas’ versatility across the forward line opens up a number of tactical approaches for his manager.
With Everton certain not to be playing in European competition next season, and Spurs facing the likely possibility of only their second season without European football in a decade, West Ham’s sneaking into the Europa League courtesy of the Fair Play League could be a strong bargaining chip when making a move for Mirallas.
