Liverpool may need to see off West Ham United for the signing of Leeds United full-back Sam Byram, although Whites coach Steve Evans isn’t expecting the youngster to move on.
According to the Telegraph [via the Express], West Ham—who defeated Liverpool in Premier League action on Saturday—are the latest side to show an interest in the full-back, who can also play in a more advanced role down the right flank.
The 22-year-old is out of contract at the end of the season, and while Leeds are hoping to keep hold of the player, the Express note that they value the player at £8 million and would have to sell now in order to pick up that fee—or something close to it.
West Ham recently offloaded Matt Jarvis to Norwich City for £5 million [via the Express], and thus have ready access to funds to sign Byram, who would provide ample competition for current right-back Carl Jenkinson, who is on loan from Arsenal.
However, the Hammers may well face competition from Liverpool, with The Sun reporting that the Reds have been scouting the player as a potential January addition, while the Express suggest that Everton are also keeping tabs on the Thurrock-born youngster.
Speaking to the Express, United boss Evans has insisted that he’s not expecting the player to move on in January.
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“I take a lot of interest in the Prozone stats and in two of the last three games he’s covered more distance than any other player by a quite distance. His attitude’s spot on and he’s been big for us.”