The Hammers have reportedly made contact with the French side over Jean-Michael Seri

West Ham have entered the race to sign Chelsea target Jean-Michael Seri, according to the Sun.

The highly-rated Nice midfielder is reportedly in advanced talks with the Blues and wants a move to the Premier League, but the Hammers are looking to hijack the deal.

Seri, 26, has a release clause of £35m, making him an attractive prospect for many clubs in Europe, including Napoli and Borussia Dortmund.

New West Ham boss Manuel Pellegrini has made a busy start to life at the London Stadium, signing Fulham’s Ryan Fredericks already, but wants a big signing to please the fans.

The Ivory Coast international has made it clear he will not be playing in France next season.

Paris Saint-Germain’s Javier Pastore emerged as a shock potential signing for the Hammers, but the deal faded out after the Argentine demanded £170,000 a week.