West Ham United aren’t ‘pushing particularly hard’ for Dwight McNeil but he’s ‘probably an option’ this summer, according to Daily Star journalist Paul Brown.

The Hammers have missed out on the signature of Jesse Lingard, who has joined Nottingham Forest on a one-year deal, and McNeil could be brought in as an alternative target.

What is the latest news involving McNeil?

Sky Sports have reported that both West Ham and fellow Premier League outfit Crystal Palace are interested in snapping up McNeil, who suffered relegation with Burnley last season.

It’s claimed that both the capital clubs have ‘approached’ the Clarets over the highly-rated 22-year-old as they look to improve their options out wide.

McNeil is reportedly seen as an appealing target because of his experience of top-level football, while still being so young, and is said to be available for a fee in excess of £15 million.

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The former England Under-21 international is keen to return to the top-flight as soon as possible and is currently assessing his options ahead of the upcoming campaign.

However, Burnley are in a strong negotiating position as McNeil has two years remaining on his current contract and the club have the option to extend it by a further 12 months.

What has Brown said about McNeil?

Burnley are embarking on a mass overhaul of their first-team squad following the arrival of new manager Vincent Kompany, and McNeil could be the next out the exit door.

And O’Rourke has informed GiveMeSport that his agents are ‘putting his name out there’ to various sides.

He told GMS: “I think there are agents putting his name out there with various clubs. I think he's probably an option for West Ham, but I don't think they're pushing particularly hard for him at the moment.”

Would McNeil be a good signing?

McNeil has been one of Burnley’s standout performers in recent years, racking up 24 goal contributions in 147 appearances across all competitions, leading to his ex-boss Sean Dyche labelling him a "real talent".

And the wingers’ underlying numbers were arguably even more impressive last season.

As per FBref, McNeil has ranked in the 99th percentile for blocks, 98th for interceptions and 88th for tackles amongst his positional peers over the last 12 months, highlighting his outstanding work rate off the ball.

Therefore, McNeil could be an ideal acquisition for David Moyes, who demands his forward players defend from the front.