Chelsea transfer news: Blues to target West Ham’s Manuel Lanzini as Cesc Fabregas’ replacement, claims Spurs legend
Attacker produced a spellbinding display as he scored two goals to fire David Moyes' men to victory at Huddersfield
FORMER Tottenham and Manchester United star Garth Crooks has warned West Ham that Chelsea could steal "magician" Manuel Lanzini.
The 24-year-old Argentine produced a spellbinding display to help fire the Hammers to victory at Huddersfield on Saturday.
Mark Noble and Marko Arnautovic fired the East London side into the lead in Yorkshire.
But Lanzini's second half double in the 4-1 triumph stole the headlines as West Ham climbed above their hosts into 11th spot in the Premier League.
And that display has led to Crooks claiming that capital city rivals Chelsea could be lining up the South American as a replacement for Cesc Fabregas.
Speaking in his BBC Sport column, Crooks said: “The skillful Argentine was like a sorcerer’s apprentice weaving his magic and left the John Smith’s stadium with the Terriers will under his spell.
“What was so impressive was the way Lanzini, with West Ham already 3-1 up, raced 40 yards to support Marko Arnautovic in order to administer Hudderfield’s last rites.
“The finish was equal to the work and endeavour the player put in throughout the match.
'DON'T THINK SO' Antonio Conte insists he has no interest in Alexis Sanchez
“The only problem I can foresee is that if Lanzini keeps playing like this, how long before Chelsea come knocking on the door?
“Cesc Fabregas is not getting any younger you know.”
LATEST CHELSEA TRANSFER NEWS
Lanzini is proving to be a vital part of the West Ham revival since the arrival of David Moyes.
The Scottish boss would be reluctant to lose his talented attacker, but he could be about to do some other transfer business with the Blues.
However, Moyes is only prepared to do business on a permanent basis and has warned the champions that a loan switch will not be considered.
Carroll, 29, has grown frustrated by his lack of opportunities under Moyes and is currently crocked with an ankle injury.
💰How to win £1MILLION with Sun Six💰
SUN SIX is the new predictor game where you can win £1million - just by correctly picking the results of six games.
Here is how to get your mitts on the million:
- Make your picks - predict the scores from these six games
- Enter your details - quickly sign up to Sun Bets so we can contact you
- Score £1m - Watch the scores roll in and you can win £1m
Top pundits IAN WRIGHT and DANNY HIGGINBOTHAM have made their picks for this week if you need a steer.
And remember, you can claim a free £30 bet with Sun Bets when you sign up put a tenner on this weekend's football here.