West Ham United have confirmed their interest in Darren Fletcher, and hope to add him to their squad sooner rather than later.
The 30-year-old has struggled to force his way into Louis van Gaal’s plans at Manchester United, which looks likely to result in him ending his long association with the club this month. Fletcher has spent his entire professional career at Old Trafford, making 342 appearances in all competitions and helping them win five Premier League titles, one FA Cup and a UEFA Champions League.
Although he is third in the pecking order of captaincy at United, van Gaal is prepared to let the midfielder leave before the window shuts on 2 February. Sam Allardyce has confirmed he would like the Scotland international at Upton Park as the Hammers challenge for a place in Europe this season, although he accepts the player is in high demand elsewhere.
“We’ve had no permission to speak to Darren Fletcher,” said Allardyce. “He’s got quite a few clubs interested in him so when he makes his mind up everyone will know. I don’t know what the timeline is. We can’t wait forever. I always think at this stage of the window, if you do get something nailed on you have to take it because you might end up with nothing if you don’t.”
West Bromwich Albion have also confirmed their interest in Fletcher, who has made just five starts for United this season, and manager Tony Pulis revealed last week that the Scot is in talks with three or four clubs. Everton head coach Roberto Martinez is also thought to be an admirer, whilst Valencia are willing to offer the midfielder a fresh challenge in Spain’s La Liga.
