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West Ham have held initial talks over the potential signing of Liverpool forward Divock Origi, according to a report.

This summer could be the end of Origi’s long association with Liverpool. A hero of their Champions League victory in 2019, he has rarely been a regular starter in his five full seasons with the club either side of loan spells away. If Liverpool look to sign another attacker, the Belgian may make way.

He would still have several suitors in the Premier League. For example, Wolves were recently said to have submitted a derisory opening offer to take him to Molineux.

But they are evidently not the only ones competing for his signature, because Football Insider report that West Ham have opened “preliminary talks”.

Strikers have been the main course of West Ham transfer news in 2021. They sold Sebastien Haller to Ajax in January and are yet to replace him. It didn’t affect them too much last season, as they still went on to secure Europa League qualification. But with a four-competition season now on the horizon, they know they need depth in all areas.

Origi may be a cost-effective option up front if he can rediscover the kind of form that made him important to Liverpool a couple of years ago. The Reds are reportedly holding out for £15m after giving him just two Premier League starts last season.

According to Football Insider, West Ham are leading the race for Origi’s signature at present. Some communication has been held, although such a deal is still in its early stages.

The Hammers have been linked with a plethora of strikers in recent months, so must decide on the best one. What works in Origi’s favour is that he has Premier League experience and is available for a decent price.

Whether they press ahead with their interest remains to be seen.

Origi praised as value for money

One pundit recently claimed that Origi’s original asking price of £20m would represent good value for money for both parties.

“Origi has been a bit-part player for Liverpool but make no mistake, he is a very good player. £20million for a player of his quality in this day and age really isn’t much,” Paul Robinson said.

“He has shown as an impact player off the bench for Liverpool just how dangerous he can be. Over the years he’s scored some really important goals for them.

“Liverpool are trying to sell players on the peripheral which will allow Klopp to go into the market to strengthen in one or two positions with more money than he would have previously had.

“They will obviously try and get as much money as they can for the players that they don’t want and £20million for Origi would be great business. We could then see two new signings.”

READ MORE: Liverpool set for transfer blitz as news of secret wish-list emerges

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