Aston Villa have joined West Ham in the race to sign Rennes winger Paul Georges Ntep this summer, claim the Daily Star.
The 22-year-old forward enjoyed the best season of his career last season, scoring nine goals and assisting seven times in 35 Ligue 1 appearances, which was enough to force his way into the French international squad, and he earned his first caps this summer.
The player is believed to be only interested in a move away from France for a team in European competition, with Arsenal and Tottenham both linked in the past. Stoke are also said to be keen.
West Ham enquired into signing the player earlier this month, but were told they’d have to pay £12m to sign him.
Eager to find a replacement for Stewart Downing, with a deal to sign Kevin Mirallas stalling over a fee, the Hammers may return to the negotiation table to sign one of France’s hottest young stars.
Everton are said to be holding out for £10m to sell the 27-year-old Belgian. It was last reported that West Ham had offered £7.5m for Mirallas, who has one year left on his current contract at Goodison Park, and that is believed to have been rejected.
