Sought-after Sam: two more join chase for Irons target

Rumour has it that the two-horse race for Lyon full back Samuel Umtiti has in the last 24 hours become a four horse race. The Mirror reported on Tuesday afternoon that West Ham were set to battle it out with bitter rivals Tottenham Hotspur for the France U21 star, but reports from Italy today suggest that Italian giants AC Milan and another Premier League side, Newcastle United, have now entered the chase for the youngster.

The Magpies recently lost their full back Massadio Haidara to what looks like a long term injury after a horror tackle by Wigan Athletic's Calum McManaman in the recent Premier League match and are reported to be in the market for a replacement.

Umtiti has impressed in Ligue One and the Europa League this season with his powerful displays for the French side, and looks set to have a range of options open to him in the summer.

We'll keep you posted on this one...

By Alex Shilling, News Editor

@alexshilling