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West Ham are reportedly one of the teams that are interested in French defender Jean-Claude Billong.

The 26-year-old is owned by newly-promoted Serie A club Benevento Calcio, but he’s currently halfway through a two-year loan at Italian second-tier club Salernitana.

According to TEAMtalk, West Ham have expressed an interest in the centre-back and it’s explained that many scouts believe his physicality could make him a perfect fit for the English game.

The report states Premier League rivals Crystal Palace, West Brom and Norwich are also keen on his signature, as well as Championship outfit Norwich City.

It is understood that Salernitana want to offload the defender despite the fact he’s on a two-year loan with them, but any transfer this summer would need to be agreed by them and parent club Benevento.

TBR’s View:

Billong has had spells in Portugal, Slovenia and Italy since his move to Europe from New York Red Bulls, but he’s yet to really get settled at one club.

The 6ft 4in colossus defender surely doesn’t have the profile of someone ready to make a move to the Premier League and it would be a major gamble.

West Ham fans are beginning to go frustrated with their transfer window, as they need to try keep hold of their best young players and perhaps look for one or two marquee additions to strengthen the squad at the London Stadium.