Irons eyeing Spain star Etxebarria

West Ham manager Sam Allardyce has his eye on Real Betis' Benat Extebarria and will bid for the Spain international in the summer, according to reports from Spain.

The 26 year old's agent has confirmed that Extebarria will leave his club at the end of the season and there is no shortage of interest in him, with Italian giants AC Milan said to be among the sides interested in the industrious midfielder.

Hammers scouts travelled to Spain this weekend to watch Extebarria give a highly impressive performance in his side's win over Celta Vigo and a move to London and Premier League football would reportedly hold significant appeal for the player, who would be available for a figure in the region of £5m. Betis are keen to profit while they can, rather than lose Extebarria for nothing next summer when his contract runs out.

By Alex Shilling, News Editor

@alexshilling