According to reliable journalist Pete O’Rourke, West Ham could ‘definitely’ make a move for Burnley forward Maxwel Cornet during the upcoming transfer window.
The Lowdown: Cornet’s release clause activated
The 25-year-old first made the switch from Ligue 1 to the Premier League when he put pen to paper on a five-year deal with the Clarets last summer, and despite being the Turf Moor outfit’s top goalscorer this season, he was unable to prevent his side from relegation.
According to The Telegraph, David Moyes is considering a deal for the versatile striker in the coming weeks, but could be set to face some serious competition in the race for his signature, with fellow top-flight rivals Everton registering interest in the Ivorian.
The report also states that a £17.5m release clause has been activated due to Burnley dropping into the Championship.
The Latest: O’Rourke’s West Ham transfer admission
O’Rourke says he can definitely see West Ham attempting to sign Cornet, but feels like there will be multiple clubs chasing his signature. He told GiveMeSport:
“I could definitely see West Ham making a move for Cornet. This relegation release clause makes Cornet very attractive to a number of clubs, not just in the Premier League but probably abroad as well.
“I think Cornet had a good debut season in the Premier League for Burnley; he was one of their better players.”
The Verdict: Ideal attacking alternative for Moyes
The 25-cap international, once dubbed a “fantastic” player by former teammate Chris Wood, originally started out playing in the left-back position with former side Lyon, and has racked up game time in a whopping seven different positions during his career.
He proved to be an effective option up top in his first full campaign for the Clarets, scoring nine goals and registering two assists in all competitions, as per Transfermarkt.
It’s been reported that Moyes is planning a significant overhaul this summer, with a new striker believed to be very high up on his transfer wish-list to provide backup for Michail Antonio.
As the Scot prepares to revamp his squad ahead of the start of the new season, Cornet might well be the perfect option to bolster his attacking ranks, as his versatility means he will not be wasted on the bench when Antonio is fit and firing.