Boost for West Ham as attacking target reportedly looking to force London Stadium move

According to reports, Stoke City striker Marko Arnautovic has handed the Potters a transfer request after they rejected an £15 million bid from West Ham.

The 28-year-old Arnautovic is reportedly seen as a top target of Hammers manager Slaven Bilic as he looks to bolster his attack ahead of next season.

The Austrian international Arnautovic is said to have held talks with manager Mark Hughes last week, where he made it known that he wishes to leave Stoke and has now make his desire known in writing.

Though the Potters do not wish to part ways with the striker, they may now have to do so, with West Ham expected to come back with an improved offer off around £20 million.

While confirming that a bid from West Ham for Arnautovic was turned down from West Ham, Stoke chairman Peter Coates had said,” We will only sell Marko if the terms are right but he’s not a player we want to lose.”