West Ham United are set to do battle with Inter Milan for the signature of Chelsea's Emerson Palmieri, according to a report.
The full-back's future at Stamford Bridge looks bleak following the arrival of Ben Chilwell, and Emerson was left out of Frank Lampard's squad for their victory against Brighton & Hove Albion.
The 26-year-old has since been heavily linked with a return to Serie A, where he turned out for Palermo and Roma before signing for Chelsea in 2018, and Inter are believed to be at the head of the queue for Emerson's signature.
However, according to The Independent, West Ham are hoping to land the Italy international, although the Hammers would prefer a loan move rather than a permanent deal.
Speculation surrounding a possible move to Chelsea for Declan Rice has led to rumours suggesting that Emerson could be included as part of a deal for the Englishman, but the report states that West Ham are standing firm and are not willing to sell Rice during the transfer window.
Emerson has totalled 55 appearances for the Blues since his arrival, notching up a solitary goal in the 2018-19 EFL Cup against Liverpool.
Ben Knapton
