By Matthew Jones

According to Sky Sports News HQ, West Ham United are in advanced talks to sign St Etienne fullback Kevin Malcuit in the summer in a permanent £10m deal. Manchester United are also reported to be keeping tabs on the French defender after his impressive performances against Jose Mourinho’s side in the Europa League.

The 25 year old signed for St Etienne for just £427,000 towards the end of the 2015 Summer Transfer Window, however a swift introduction to the first-team has lead to the player being scouted by several Premier League clubs. West Ham reportedly had three bids turned down for the right-back in the January Transfer Window.

The former Monaco defender has averaged 5.8 tackles and interceptions a game, whilst also helping himself to four assists this season. Malcuit would fit comfortably into West Ham’s first team as Slaven Bilic looks to have finally found a fullback who can both attack and defend successfully. Whilst the talent of the in-form Frenchman is evident, Malcuit is not Premier-league proven and also has some disciplinary records to his name. It is arguably a risk by the West Ham board, but is Slaven making the right choice?

Matthew Jones