West Ham joining the race to sign Magpies’ target Cornet

WEST Ham United are the latest Premier League club to join the race to sign Burnley winger Maxwel Cornet.

The Ivorian is one of a number of players to have been repeatedly linked with a move to Newcastle United and speculation surfaced on Friday claiming the Magpies were ready to pursue a deal.

It was claimed Eddie Howe’s side had been in talks with the recentlyrelegated Clarets but Everton and Leeds United have also been linked with a move for the versatile winger.

Cornet (right) was the silver lining in an otherwise disappointing season for the Clarets, scoring nine goals in 26 games following his move from Lyon.

However, reports last night suggested West Ham have now joined the race to sign the 25-year-old - opting against activating his £17.5million release clause.

Newcastle were also reportedly looking to avoid stumping up the full release clause for Cornet, preferring a structured deal based on instalments.

Meanwhile, the Magpies are set to drop their interest in Chelsea striker Timo Werner - but are instead keen on one of his Stamford Bridge team-mates.

Reports claim the Magpies will look to sign midfielder Callum Hudson-Odoi.

Werner had been linked with a loan move to St. James’ Park this summer but now favours a move back to Germany with RB Leipzig.