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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.

 Chelsea could steal 'magician' Manuel Lanzini from West Ham
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Chelsea could steal 'magician' Manuel Lanzini from West HamCredit: REUTERS

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.

 Spurs legend Garth Crooks has made the claim during his BBC Sport column
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Spurs legend Garth Crooks has made the claim during his BBC Sport columnCredit: PA:Empics Sport
 He thinks the Blues will try to get the Argentine to replace Cesc Fabregas
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He thinks the Blues will try to get the Argentine to replace Cesc FabregasCredit: PA:Press Association

“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.


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“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.”

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.

 Manuel Lanzini scored two goals as he helped fire West Ham to victory at Huddersfield
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Manuel Lanzini scored two goals as he helped fire West Ham to victory at HuddersfieldCredit: AFP
 The South American has played a key role in the revival under David Moyes
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The South American has played a key role in the revival under David MoyesCredit: Reuters
 Chelsea are interested in signing West Ham striker Andy Carroll
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Chelsea are interested in signing West Ham striker Andy CarrollCredit: PA:Press Association

Antonio Conte appears to be a big fan of Hammers forward Andy Carroll and has made a move for the towering Geordie.

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.

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Huddersfield 1-4 West Ham: Terriers hammered as Marko Arnautovic and Manuel Lanzini star to lift visitors five points clear of drop
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