'So much talent' - Pundit delivers intriguing verdict on £59k-per-week West Ham target

Former West Ham United forward Frank McAvennie believes the Hammers can make a ‘great statement’ by signing Manchester City’s Oleksandr Zinchenko.

The Ukrainian star has been heavily linked with a move away amid reports that City are looking to sign Marc Cucurella from Brighton & Hove Albion.

Club insider ExWHUemployee also revealed West Ham’s interest in the versatile ace earlier this month.

According to inews, the Ukraine international is keen to discuss his future with City before making any definitive decision and is open to signing a new contract.

The report also claims that the Citizens could be able to ‘command a substantial fee’ should he leave the Etihad Stadium this summer.

And McAvennie believes that not only could signing Zinchenko add a quality addition to the Irons squad, but persuade their star players to stick around as the Hammers aim to remain in European contention.

Speaking to West Ham Zone about Zinchenko, he said: “I think he’d be a great signing, but what kind of money are we talking about?

“What are City going to charge? I’ve just seen David [Moyes] was saying he’s happy to stick with Antonio next year, and I’m thinking, really? I’ve not got a problem with him, but we saw what was happening at the end of the season. He just ran out of steam.

“It’s a strange one. Certainly want to bring someone in. I don’t know who he’s going to bring.

“The boy you’re talking about from Ukraine [Zinchenko] would be a great addition but he would shine in that environment at West Ham. It’s a friendly place and it’s London, I keep saying it, his Mrs would love it. It’s one of them.

“I think he’d be a better player than what he is if he came. I just honestly think that he’s got so much talent, and I mean bits and bobs