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West Ham and Everton are among the suitors for exit-linked Lazio attacker Joaquin Correa, according to reports.

Lazio have already lost their head coach this summer, with Simone Inzaghi moving to Inter Milan. Maurizio Sarri looks like the leading candidate to replace him, but he could inherit a squad that will be undergoing some changes. Correa is one of those at risk of being sold, and two Premier League teams are aware of the opportunity.

According to TyC Sports, citing Italian sources, Sarri wants to make five signings if he takes over at Lazio. To fund those deals, they first must make one big sale, and Correa could be the man to make way.

The Argentine report claims that West Ham and Everton are both preparing bids for the 26-year-old. Correa could cost around €30m, but both clubs have made enquiries and do not seem to be put off.

Correa scored 11 goals from 38 appearances in all competitions in the 2020-21 season. It was his third campaign in the Italian capital and he has been a useful player in his time there. But that now could be coming to an end.

West Ham have been searching for attacking reinforcements ever since selling Sebastien Haller to Ajax in January. Correa plays in a slightly deeper attacking role than some of the other names to be linked with them, but can feature as a centre-forward.

Incidentally, the South American was linked with the Hammers back in 2018, before he chose Lazio instead.

Everton, meanwhile, have released Joshua King following the end of his contract, leaving a space for an extra attacker. Correa could fill that gap and should be able to contribute more than the Norwegian did in his short spell on Merseyside.

However, Corriere Dello Sport have claimed that Correa wants to stay at Lazio, where he remains under contract until 2024. But matters could be taken out of his hands if the Biancocelesti need to sell, and the Premier League could be his destination.

The former Sevilla striker is currently on duty with Argentina for the Copa America. Thus, his club future is only likely to become clearer after that competition concludes in July.

West Ham eye another South American striker

News of West Ham’s interest in Correa follows reports that they were keeping tabs on another South American forward in Serie A, Alexis Sanchez.

The Chilean, 32, became one of world football’s most tenacious attackers during a three-and-a-half year stint with Arsenal.

A high-profile switch to Man Utd materialised, but things quickly turned sour. A humbling loan exit to Inter arose before the move became permanent last year.

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Sanchez regularly featured in the Nerazzurri’s recent title-winning campaign, though rarely from the start. However, the club’s financial issues are now a matter of public record. As such, Inter have reportedly asked Sanchez to seek a new club.

And with David Moyes still a fan, that next club could be West Ham.

READ MORE: West Ham plotting stunning raid for once-great Premier League attacker

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