As we approach the end of the summer transfer window, the race to sign Ireland striker Troy Parrott looks to be close to reaching its conclusion.
It has long been assumed that the 24-year old would leave AZ Alkmaar this summer. He was one of the most prolific goalscorers in European football last season and has outgrown his current surroundings.
Parrott has been linked with some intriguing clubs in recent months, with the likes of Ajax, Real Betis, Porto, and RB Leipzig all said to be interested in his services. However, it seems that West Ham have emerged as the surprise favourites for his signature.
The London club have already had a €18million bid rejected for the player, although it is expected that they will return with an improved offer over the coming days.
Ironically, their willingness to spend heavily on Troy Parrott could end up benefitting one of their biggest rivals.
Troy Parrott Set To Earn Tottenham Massive Windfall
Troy Parrott moved to Tottenham Hotspur as a 15-year old, spending a few seasons in their academy before eventually making a handful of first team appearances.
While Spurs did not feel he was ready to for consistent minutes at the club, they clearly believed that the Irishman had the potential to become an valuable player in the future.
They would sell him to AZ Alkmaar for a fee worth around €8million in the summer of 2024. They also inserted a 20 per cent sell-on clause in the deal, something that looks like a shrewd move as the interest in the player continues to increase.
It has been suggested that the Dutch club would seek a fee in the region of €30million to sanction Parrott's sale this summer. Such a deal would see Spurs pocket €6million (£5.1million) due to the sell-on clause.
That may not be a hugely significant amount of money for a Premier League club, but it would come close to doubling the amount that they ultimately received for the player.
Troy Parrott saga set to conclude by end of month
It remains to be seen what the fee for Troy Parrott will ultimately be, but it will certainly be in excess of the €18million (£15million) that West Ham opened the bidding with. They will certainly have to surpass the Championship record fee of £17.5million in order to get the deal over the line.
The news of a potential move to the Championship has been met with a mixed reaction by Ireland supporters, although it is suggested that the likes of RB Leipzig and Porto still maintain an interest in the player.
The situation could even stretch on towards deadline day, although it seems that West Ham are keen to wrap up the move as quick as possible.