West Ham urged to sign 'world-class' Premier League star

West Ham United have been urged to sign ‘world-class’ Aston Villa loanee Philippe Coutinho in the summer by journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The Hammers failed to add any reinforcements to their squad during the January transfer window, but they are still battling for a place in the Premier League’s top four thanks to another impressive campaign.

Coutinho completed an initial loan switch to Aston Villa in the early stages of 2022, with the deal including the option of being made permanent for £33million from Barcelona.

The Brazilian has gone on to admit he was desperate to seal a return to the Premier League having left the English top flight in a £146million deal four years ago.

Although Villa seemingly hold the upper-hand when it comes to securing Coutinho’s long-term future, it appears West Ham are one of two domestic rivals looking to hijack the permanent transfer.

According to Spanish sources, the Hammers and Arsenal are interested in welcoming Coutinho to London.

The report suggests both clubs will enter talks with Barcelona, with the potential for Coutinho to play a key role in West Ham boss David Moyes’ system and Arsenal chief Mikel Arteta ‘in love’ with the 29-year-old.

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O’Rourke believes West Ham should pursue Coutinho and discover whether it would be possible to strike a deal for the creative midfielder.

The journalist has no doubt that the former Liverpool man would bolster Moyes’ options in the final third of the pitch and make them more potent going forward.

O’Rourke told GIVEMESPORT: “Somebody like Philippe Coutinho would definitely improve West Ham’s squad. He is a quality, world-class player.”

The 66-cap Brazil international has