Speaking to Football Insider, BBC Radio 5 Live pundit Alan Hutton has been left thrilled by a West Ham transfer claim involving Liverpool defender Nathaniel Phillips.

The Lowdown: West Ham line up Phillips move...

As per Football Insider, it appears that Irons manager David Moyes is targeting the Reds powerhouse, who has found game-time difficult to come by this season. Starting 15 Premier League games under Jurgen Klopp last year, the 24-year-old has been restricted to just 46 minutes across all competitions so far this term (WhoScored).

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He has duly been linked with a move away in January, and West Ham are apparently lining up a move to sign him for Moyes. As per Football Insider sources, the groundwork is being laid for a potential winter deal as the Hammers eye cover for injured defender Angelo Ogbonna, and it is believed that a fee as small as £12m could be enough to get the deal done.

The Latest: Hutton approves...

Speaking to Football Insider, former Premier League defender Hutton has been left thrilled by the development, voicing his approval of the prospective move. He said:

"“Moyes’ transfer record has been brilliant since he’s been at the club.

"I think this fits the bill – a young player who’s got that experience and big-game experience. He’s still got a lot to learn but I think under the likes of David Moyes you can learn as you go along.

“He’s that type of guy, he’s building something for the future. I think the West Ham team are very strong at the moment. There’s a lot young players in there who are doing unbelievably well. I think Phillips would fit that bill.

"The price is great and for a guy so young, there’s a lot of room there for improvement. There could be a sell-on fee.

“There’s so much going in the right direction for him so I see that as being a good move. Jurgen Klopp, with the amount he has got back fit now, Konate’s come in as well, it is going to be limited game time for Phillips.

“It might suit all parties.”

The Verdict: Bang on...

As Phillips searches for more game-time and West Ham scour the market for greater depth, this transfer would certainly come as a win-win for both the Irons and Liverpool, just as Hutton has intimated.

A fee of £12m is arguably too good to turn down, especially for a player who averaged more aerial duels won per 90 and clearances made than any of West Ham's current defenders last season (WhoScored).

Homegrown, fairly young and with it all to prove, Phillips could certainly come as an astute January option and possible alternative to Craig Dawson. Lauded as a 'monster' by Klopp, the centre-half may well be what West Ham are seeking.

In other news: Newman also eyeing West Ham bid to sign 129-goal 'big name' striker, find out more here.