EXCLUSIVE: West Ham, Aston Villa scouting impressive Burnley star

Josh Brownhill Burnley v Leicester March 2021

Burnley are facing a battle to hang onto Josh Brownhill after a hugely impressive campaign from the midfielder, TEAMtalk understands.

The 25-year-old arrived at Turf Moor last January from Championship Bristol City, and he has become a key player under Sean Dyche.

Dynamic midfielder Brownhill has adapted very well to life in the top-flight, having previously been on the books of Manchester United.

Now we understand that a number of Burnley’s Premier League rivals are taking a keen interest in his progress.

We can reveal that Wolves, Southampton, Crystal Palace, West Ham and Aston Villa have all scouted him in recent months.

Soucek will not leave on the cheap

Tomas Soucek’s agent insists the midfielder is happy at West Ham United and any club wanting to sign him will need deep pockets.

Soucek, 26, joined the Hammers from Slavia Prague in January 2020. An initial six-month loan deal was replaced by a permanent four-year contract last summer.

He has repaid the club by playing every minute of their Premier League campaign in 2020-2021. The Czech Republic ace has scored eight top-flight goals to help West Ham to sixth place in the table.

Unsurprisingly, a few of the big clubs have expressed an interest. Manchester United were said to be ‘monitoring’ the player last month while Barcelona are also thought to be keen.

He has certainly enhanced his reputation for the East End outfit this term. From a struggling club last season, they are genuine contenders to finish in the top four.

There is still a long way to go but David Moyes admits his men have already outdone themselves. A place in next season’s Champions League might be enough to keep Soucek at the London Stadium.

But there will be suitors in the summer. Bayern Munich have also been linked. And unsubstantiated claims suggested Barcelona presidential candidate Joan Laporta’s camp have been in contract. Read more…