West Ham United are ‘now exploring’ the possibility of signing Burnley forward Maxwel Cornet, according to Daily Express journalist Ryan Taylor.

The Hammers have already brought in Gianluca Scamacca to bolster their attacking options this window, but it seems manager David Moyes is not satisfied with his summer’s work just yet.

What is the latest news involving Cornet?

A recent report from The Guardian has claimed that West Ham are ‘close to agreeing a deal’ for Cornet but face stiff competition from a handful of fellow Premier League sides.

It’s claimed that Everton, Newcastle United and newly-promoted Nottingham Forest are also in the running for the talented 25-year-old following an impressive 2021/22 campaign.

The Ivory Coast international is known to have a £17.5 million release clause written into his contract, but West Ham are attempting to negotiate that figure down, opening the door to his other potential suitors.

Nevertheless, the east London outfit are believed to be in the driving seat for Cornet’s signature, with Moyes eager to add a left-sided attacker to his squad.

What has Taylor said about Cornet?

Taylor believes that Cornet is being lined up as alternative option to Eintracht Frankfurt’s Filip Kostic, informing GiveMeSport that the versatile star is ‘definitely a target’ for West Ham.

He told GMS: “Cornet had a great season last year, he’s still great value, and West Ham have gone in with a bid which has been knocked back.

“Obviously, it looks increasingly unlikely at the moment that Filip Kostic is not going to be a player they're going to be able to get their hands on.

“They made an offer of £12.8 million which was rejected, still no agreement on personal terms, and Juventus are now back in for him as well. So, it's a difficult deal to do, but Cornet is definitely a target that West Ham are now exploring.”

Would Cornet be a good signing?

Cornet, who is capable of playing up-front, on either flank or at left-back, was one of few glimmers of hope for Burnley as they suffered relegation from the Premier League last season.

The £44,000-per-week ace found the back of the net on nine occasions and added a single assist in just 26 top-flight appearances for the Clarets.

In a campaign where West Ham will once again welcome European football to the London Stadium, Cornet’s arrival would surely be a welcomed addition, providing cover and competition in a variety of positions.