Juventus striker Mario Mandzukic has been linked with a move to the Premier League.
The Croatian has a contract with Serie A league leaders Juventus until 2018 and though he has made a total of 32 appearances for the Bianconeri this season, scoring 8 goals, he has been subject to interest from a couple of clubs.
According to reports, Turkish league leaders Besiktas are keen and see him as a replacement for Germany striker Mario Gomez, who scored 26 goals on loan at the club last season but did not sign him permanently and instead returned to the Bundesliga and penned a deal with Wolfsburg.
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West Ham are also interested and could make a summer move.
Slaven Bilic is a big fan and is well clued up on on what Mandzukic is all about having worked with him when he was in charge of the Croatia national team.
The Hammers have been linked with a whole host of strikers in recent times and Mandzukic appears to be one who would suit their style of play.
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The 31-year old was a huge player for Jupp Heynckes' treble-winning Bayern side in 2013 and despite scoring 26 goals for Bayern in Pep Guardiola's first season in charge, he left the club for Atletico Madrid following the arrival of Robert Lewandowski in 2014 and the fact he did not fit Guardiola's philosophy.
That certainly wouldn't be the case at West Ham, who adopt a direct style of play and get crosses in from wide areas.
Andy Carroll has provided the goods in attack when fit, but he has not been available for selection enough this season and that is why the Irons want a new striker so desperately.
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The experienced Mandzukic would certainly be a top candidate for the striking berth and it would be quite a signing if West Ham can pull it off.
Let's see what the summer brings...
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