UEFA Europa League Champions inquires about signing West Ham's preseason star

West Ham have made eight signings to improve their squad in the transfer window. The Hammers have also signed Argentina star Guido Rodriguez on a free transfer. Hence, experienced midfielder Tomas Soucek is expected to be the second choice holding midfielder after Rodriguez.

However, one more midfielder is expected to play in less matches in the upcoming season. The player is Andy Irving who despite performing well in preseason can leave the club in this transfer window for more playing time. Now, according to Edinburgh News, UEFA Europa League Champions Atalanta are considering signing West Ham midfielder Andy Irving.

UEFA Europa League Champions inquires about signing West Ham's preseason star

Since joining West Ham from Austrian club Klagenfurt, Irving is yet to make his Hammers debut. In preseason, Irving performed well giving an assist on the equalising goal against Ferencvaros and scoring the only goal in West Ham's 1-0 win over Dagenham. Although, Irving wasn't expected to be a starting midfielder at West Ham, the 24-year-old is a quality squad option for Julen Lopetegui's side.

Now, Atalanta are interested in signing Irving as they look to find a replacement for Dutch defensive midfielder Teun Koopmeiners who is very close to join Juventus in this transfer window. For Irving, this is a great opportunity as the 24-year-old will get more playing time and experience playing in the top five leagues. Also, Atalanta will play UEFA Champions League this season as they qualified directly by winning the UEFA Europa League.

West Ham will be open to let Irving join Atalanta if they receive a transfer fee of around £15 million. Now, it remains to be seen whether Atalanta submit an opening bid to sign Irving. Meanwhile, West Ham are preparing to face Aston Villa in the first Premier League match.