West Ham are set to step up the hunt to sign CJ Egan-Riley this summer, its been reported by ExWHUEmployee.

As has been reported previously by our insider, the Burnley defender has been identified as a key target for Graham Potter this summer, with a strong desire to see younger players amongst the Hammers squad next season.

Reporting on The West Ham Way Patreon, Ex has now advised that the club is ramping up efforts to sign the England U21 international.

“We exclusively revealed an interest in CJ Egan-Riley of Burnley and it seems that the club will step up their interest in the player,” stated Ex.

“The England Under 21s international is a versatile performer and can operate at centre back, right back and as a defensive midfielder. He started his career coming through Manchester City’s academy and has been part of an impressive Burnley defence which has only conceded 11 goals in 39 league games

“What makes the deal even more appealing is the fact that the player is out of contract in the summer. Whilst he has expressed he is keen to stay at Burnley his wages are quite low so a big offer from interested clubs could tempt him, especially if Burnley don’t achieve promotion. West Ham are expected to make a more formal offer to the player in the coming weeks.”

Ex has also exclusively revealed that the club have identified Josh Acheampong of Chelsea as other player of serious interest, with Potter and Macaulay having worked with the player when they were both at Stamford Bridge.

“It has also emerged that the club are interested in young Chelsea defender Josh Acheampong,” added Ex. “The defender last year signed a five year deal so it’s unlikely that Chelsea will let him go for a small amount.

“He can play at centre back and right back and stands at 6 foot 5. The player was born and raised in Waltham Forest so not far from West Ham and has represented England at Under 20 level as well as being legible for Mo Kudus’ national side, Ghana.

“Both Graham Potter and Kyle Macauley are very aware of the player from their Chelsea days.”