Exclusive: Everton and West Ham race to sign Josh Brownhill
Everton and West Ham are entering a race to sign Josh Brownhill as they keep close tabs on contract situation at Burnley, sources have told Football Insider.
The 29-year-old will be out of contract in June and no decision has been made about his future despite their promotion to the Premier League.
Burnley’s captain scored 18 goals and provided six assists across 42 Championship games this season and started all but two of the games for which he was available.
Both Everton and West Ham are keen to strengthen their midfields in the summer and have now been alerted to the opportunity to sign him on a free.
They are also expected to face competition should he become available, as industry insider Mick Brown told Football Insider that Celtic are well-placed to sign Brownhill.
However, Burnley remain keen to tie him down to a new deal and are expected to hold talks in the coming weeks following the end of their season.
Everton and West Ham eye Josh Brownhill swoop
Football Insider revealed on 29 April that Abdoulaye Doucoure could leave Everton, which would force the club to find a replacement in the transfer market.
The Toffees have eyed a number of Championship talents, including Gustavo Hamer and Chris Rigg, to improve their midfield, and Brownhill is now on their list.
Meanwhile, Football Insider revealed that West Ham are readying a squad overhaul as they aim to back Graham Potter in the transfer window.
Sources say a new midfielder will be among their priority targets, while Brownhill’s availability on a free has pushed him higher on their list.
This comes after Football Insider revealed Potter’s side will accept offers for Tomas Soucek amid interest from Leeds United and Everton.
Graham Potter to cash in on Lucas Paqueta in new transfer twist
West Ham are believed to be strapped for cash ahead of the summer window, with a number of their transfer targets set to be available for free.
Former Hammer scout Brown told Football Insider on 2 May that West Ham are prepared to sell Lucas Paqueta in a bid to raise funds for reinvestment.
However, clubs are currently unwilling to make a move for him amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding his charge for breaching the FA’s betting rules.
This comes after Football Insider revealed in October that West Ham are looking to replace Paqueta amid the threat of a “lifetime ban” from football.
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