West Ham lining up summer move for Derby prospect Luke Thomas
Thomas joined the Rams from Cheltenham Town in January 2016 for an undisclosed fee and Hammers are leading chase for his signature
WEST HAM are lining up a move for Derby kid Luke Thomas, according to reports.
The 19-year-old attacking midfielder has been in outstanding form for the Rams' Under-23 side this season.
Derby boss Gary Rowett has rewarded his progress with two cameo appearances from the bench this term in the home wins over QPR and Bolton Wanderers.
A host of Premier League clubs are closely monitoring his progress, but West Ham are leading the chase, say
Hammers boss David Moyes is looking to build long-term and has been impressed with the reports back from the East Midlands.
Thomas joined Derby from Cheltenham Town in January 2016 for an undisclosed fee.
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The winger impressed for the Robins' youth and reserve teams, making his senior debut in an FA Trophy against Chelmsford City just before departing for Pride Park.
Thomas spent three months on loan at National League North club Gloucester City last season, when he played alongside his older brother Keiran, who is captain of the Tigers.
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He scored once in 13 starts and two substitute appearances and returned to Derby ready to step up his progress.
His subsequent performances for the Under-23’s caught the eye of Rowett and earned him new three-year deal in October.
Cheltenham bagged £25,000 when Thomas made his Rams first-team bow and if he does join the Hammers, the League Two Robins are likely to be due a percentage of the fee.