WEST HAM are leading the race for Crystal Palace transfer target Eddie Nketiah.
The Arsenal striker is out of contract in the summer and will be available to be signed as a free agent.
Palace have been linked with the attacker since a failed attempted transfer last summer, there was even a suggestion that there was an attempt to buy Nketiah in January but Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta blocked the move.
The 21-year-old has started to shine in the Premier League run-in as he has taken his season tally to nine goals in 25 appearances in all competitions.
Arsenal are keen to tie the striker down to a new contract, but Nketiah is still holding out on signing a new deal until assurances are made over his game time.
The Gunners have already lost Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to Barcelona and Alexandre Lacazette is expected to leave in the summer once his contract expires.
Crystal Palace are on the lookout for a replacement for Christian Benteke, who could leave the club this summer if a buyer is found for the Belgian.
Nketiah would be a great addition to the Eagles as his pace and predatory nature in the box would mean that he would challenge Jean-Philippe Mateta and Odsonne Édouard for a starting spot in the team.
But now West Ham are reportedly in pole position to sign the striker should he leave Arsenal as the Hammers look for competition for Michail Antonio.
If Palace do want to sign the striker they will have to step up their efforts in order to convince him to move to Selhurst Park over the London Stadium.
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