West Ham are reportedly leading the pursuit of Marcel Regula, with former recruitment chief Tim Steidten’s Cologne also linked with the teenage midfielder.
The Zagłębie Lubin prospect has emerged as a potential target for Nils Koppen as the Hammers consider further additions.
However, the reporting does not establish that West Ham have submitted a bid or agreed a January deal.
West Ham face competition for Marcel Regula
Hammers News reports that Polish outlet Kanal Sportowy places West Ham at the front of the race for the 19-year-old.
Borussia Dortmund, Benfica and Eintracht Frankfurt are also named as interested clubs.
The same article cites German publication Express on Cologne’s interest, raising the possibility of Koppen competing with Steidten’s recruitment department.
Regula is described as an attacking midfielder who makes forward runs into the penalty area.
Reported Burnley rejection adds another complication
Hammers News also says Regula rejected a proposed £7million move to Burnley in August, preferring to continue developing in Poland.
That figure relates to the reported Burnley arrangement. It should not be treated as an agreed West Ham fee or a confirmed January asking price.
For Koppen, the reported decision underlines the importance of offering a convincing role alongside any financial proposal.
West Ham have already added young attacking talent, including summer signing Edvin Austbo.
If their interest in Regula progresses, explaining where he fits into Nuno Espírito Santo’s plans could matter as much as reaching an agreement with his club.
