Sources: West Ham in race to sign Jacques Ekomie
West Ham United have joined Wrexham in the race to sign Angers star Jacques Ekomie, sources have told Football Insider.
The 23-year-old has impressed scouts with his performances in Ligue 1, and the Championship duo are now going head-to-head to lure him to English football.
Wrexham had been seen as the leading contenders for his signature, but their move could be complicated as West Ham eye long-term replacements for El Hadji Malick Diouf.
This comes as Brentford close in on an agreement to sign Diouf, forcing Nuno Espirito Santo's side into the transfer market to identify a replacement.
Ekomie has been identified as a leading target for the Hammers, and has also been tracked by a number of clubs across Europe, with Hamburg also in the race for his signature.
The left-back has just one year remaining on his contract at Angers and could be available for the right price, which could hand Wrexham and West Ham encouragement.
Why do West Ham want to sign Jacques Ekomie?
Former West Ham scout Mick Brown told Football Insider in July that West Ham are doing everything to keep Diouf, but could be forced to sign a new left-back if he moves on.
Work has been ongoing behind the scenes at the London Stadium to identify targets at left-back, and Ekomie has now emerged as one of the leading options.
He has plenty of top-level experience, both in Ligue 1 and for the Gabon national team, and made 33 appearances in France last year to help his club to a comfortable finish.
Wrexham had initially identified him as a target to strengthen their back line as part of their ambitious plans to win promotion this summer.
However, interest from a West Ham side who are targeting promotion at the first time of asking will complicate their pursuit, with all eyes now set on Ekomie.
What is the latest on El Hadji Malick Diouf's future?
West Ham's growing interest in Ekomie comes as they brace to lose Diouf before the transfer window closes, with Brentford pushing to lure him away from East London.
The Bees have already seen two offers turned down by West Ham this summer, but have identified the Senegal international as they top target.
Football Insider exclusively revealed on 23 August that Brentford are preparing to table an improved £37million offer for Diouf in the coming days.
The 21-year-old is keen on a return to the Premier League after being part of the West Ham side that was relegated to the Championship last season.
Last season, Diouf made 32 appearances in the Premier League and picked up five assists for the Hammers, placing him firmly on Brentford's radar to improve their squad.