According to a report by Corriere di Verona, via Sport Witness, West Ham United are now among the clubs interested in signing Hellas Verona and Czech Republic midfielder Antonin Barak.

The Lowdown: Czech raid...

West Ham's interest in Czech internationals has been well documented over the last year, coming after they completed the brilliant double signing of Tomas Soucek and Vladimir Coufal from Slavia Prague.

Indeed, the duo have impressed during their time in east London, with many more names from their nation duly linked with following suit.

Ondrej Kolar, Adam Hlozek, Alex Kral and David Zima have all been touted with possible moves to the Irons, and another name from that neck of the woods has now entered the fray.

The Latest: West Ham join race to Barak...

As per Corriere di Verona, via Sport Witness, West Ham now want Barak, who was a mainstay for the Czech Republic over their Euro 2020 campaign. They aren't the only interested party, though, with Inter Milan, Napoli and Eintracht Frankfurt also eyeing a move.

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It is explained that his club are not keen on the idea of selling him this summer but could very well allow him to leave for the right price. Interest has apparently flourished around Barak in recent months and an auction could soon open for his services.

The Verdict: Lingard alternative?

West Ham reportedly want a permanent deal for Jesse Lingard, a new striker and fresh centre-back option first and foremost this summer window (Claret & Hugh).

It is unclear what the future holds for Lingard, though, and Barak could come as an alternative if the Irons cannot bring the Englishman back to east London.

Quite the physical presence at 1.9m (6 foot 2), he racked up seven goals and three assists in 32 Serie A starts over 2020/21 (WhoScored). He is also valued at a meagre £12.6m by Transfermarkt, pointing to a potentially cut-price option.

Hellas Verona originally believed that his value could sky rocket close to €20m (£17.1m) if the Czech Republic got past Denmark in their Euro 2020 quarter-final on Saturday, but their exit means that this isn't possible.

That could be a boost for GSB and the Hammers if they wish to add the 26-year-old to their growing Czech contingent at the London Stadium.

In other news: 'Concerning West Ham'...Journalist makes transfer claim involving 'amazing' ace, find out more here.