West Ham should not go back in for Sheffield United’s Fleck until summer window

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West Ham are keen on Sheffield United midfielder John Fleck before the end of the January transfer window, according to the Yorkshire Post.

They report that the Hammers – who lost 4-2 in the fourth round of the FA Cup in embarrassing fashion against AFC Wimbledon on Saturday – have lined up a bid for the Scotsman.

But Chris Wilder is apparently set to reject it – and does not want to lose the playmaker, who has become so important to his side’s hopes of promotion.

The Blades are expected to reject all advances from east London, as losing Fleck at this stage of the season would be a hammer blow.

And that importance means that West Ham will not get Fleck unless they offer a ludicrous amount of money – which is completely understandable given how integral he is to Wilder’s plans.

The Hammers are not desperate for reinforcements given their league position and there may be better value in a deal for Fleck in the summer, especially if the Blades do not gain promotion this term.

There is also no suggestion that Fleck will agitate for a move, which means that Manuel Pellegrini should look elsewhere if he wants a midfielder before Thursday’s deadline passes.