West Ham United are preparing a bold summer move to prise Danish midfield enforcer Pierre-Emile Højbjerg away from their London rivals Tottenham Hotspur, the Mirror can exclusively reveal.
New Irons boss Julen Lopetegui has identified the 28-year-old as a primary target to add steel and proven Premier League quality to his engine room ahead of the new campaign. Højbjerg, who has entered the final year of his contract in N17, is expected to be available for a cut-price deal as Spurs look to refresh their own squad under Ange Postecoglou.
Lopetegui's Midfield Revamp Begins
The potential acquisition of Højbjerg signals the start of a significant midfield overhaul at the London Stadium. With the experienced Tomas Soucek's future also the subject of speculation, Lopetegui is keen to build a new-look centre around a player of Højbjerg's calibre and experience.
The Danish international's pedigree is unquestionable. A seasoned Premier League performer with over 150 appearances for Spurs and former club Southampton, he also boasts a wealth of international and Champions League experience.
Spurs Ready to Cash In
Tottenham's stance is understood to be pragmatic. With the player not signing a new deal and Postecoglou favouring other options like Yves Bissouma and Pape Matar Sarr, chairman Daniel Levy is willing to sanction a sale to avoid losing him for nothing in a year's time.
This situation has put several clubs on alert, but West Ham are believed to be at the front of the queue, ready to offer Højbjerg a key role in Lopetegui's new project in East London.
Aston Villa Lurk as Potential Suitors
However, the Hammers may face competition for his signature. Aston Villa, fresh from their Champions League qualification under Unai Emery, are also monitoring the situation closely as they seek to bolster their squad for a gruelling campaign on multiple fronts.
The coming weeks are set to be crucial in what promises to be a fascinating transfer tussle for one of the league's most consistent performers.
