Writing on Twitter, Tunisian journalist Walid Elmechri has made a rather exciting West Ham United transfer claim involving FC Koln midfielder Ellyes Skhiri.

The Lowdown: Hammers set for busy summer?

Claret & Hugh explained that West Ham have three priorities firmly on the agenda in a permanent deal for Jesse Lingard, new centre-back and star striker, but reports have still emerged in regards to other possible signings.

Indeed, not so long ago, the Irons were heavily linked with Czech Republic international and Spartak Moscow midfielder Alex Kral and talks were even thought to be at an advanced stage (Football Insider).

While that has failed to materialise so far, other sources suggest that central midfield players are on the agenda for West Ham.

More recently, reports have claimed the Irons may even move for ex-Arsenal star Aaron Ramsey.

The Latest: West Ham enter talks for Skhiri...

As per Tunisian journalist Elmechri, writing on his social media, West Ham have now commenced negotiations with FC Koln for Skhiri but face competition from La Liga giants Sevilla.

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In a rather exciting claim, the reporter even says that both clubs are 'very close' to signing him after Koln rejected an €8 million (£6.8m) from Lyon.

"FC Koln management rejected Olympique Lyonnais' offer (8 M € )," explained the journalist on Twitter.

"Ellyes is very close to joining one of these two clubs: Sevilla FC or West Ham which have started negotiations with the German club."

The Verdict: Exciting...

This comes as a pretty exciting claim given Ellyes' head-turning numbers over the 20/21 season.

He was a mainstay for Koln in the Bundesliga last year, starting 32 matches, and it's safe to say he was a colossal presence in defensive midfield.

According to WhoScored, the 26-year-old made more tackles (2.6) and interceptions (2.6) per 90 in the German top flight than any West Ham player managed last season in the Premier League (WhoScored).

He can also get forward on occasion, scoring five goals and assisting two others last campaign, marking him out as a seemingly perfect alternative to Kral in that position.

In other news: West Ham now want to sign this towering forward who will push to leave this summer, find out more here.