The Insider

The Insider brings you the latest news surrounding the search for a striker and a left back

With the first game set to be played at the new Stadium on Thursday night, excitement is growing among West Ham United fans as they prepare to see the team play the first game at their magnificent new home.


Speculation continues to mount over which new players will be brought into the squad before the transfer window closes at the end of August.


I can reveal that another new signing is set to be announced in the near future as a deal has been agreed with Argentine forward Jonathan Calleri.


The talented striker needs to obtain a work permit which should take a few days, but my sources have told me that this will not be possible until Argentina are out of the Olympics.


There could be even more movement in the striking department as I have been told that the Club have bid £20million for a French striker.


I have been told that the other Club concerned are considering the bid and the Hammers are now waiting to discover if the move can be finalised.


It is my understanding that they are trying to find a replacement in a crazy market of activity this summer so that could hold up any possible move.


Reports throughout the summer have linked West Ham with a move for AC Milan forward Carlos Bacca.


I have been told there is still a small chance that Bacca will agree to join the Hammers as a deal has been agreed with the Italian giants, but the Columbian international is still undecided over whether he wants a move to the UK.


The search for a left back continues after Aaron Cresswell was ruled out for up to four months with a knee ligament injury.


My sources have told me that we have had two bids turned down for two left backs, but the search goes on.


The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of West Ham United