Meling pops up on West Ham’s radar

West Ham United have reportedly sent director of football Mario Husillos to Norway to scout Rosenborg left-back Birger Meling. Norway international Meling, who has been capped 10 times for his country, is said to be a key target for the Premier League outfit as they look to freshen up their defensive options.
Manuel Pellegrini currently has Arthur Masuaku, 25, and Aaron Cresswell, 29, as his two choices at left-back and the duo have made five and six league appearances respectively this season.
The Chilean tactician is not fully convinced by either player as a long-term option in that position and the former Manchester City boss is eager to bring in competition, either in January or the summer.
It is claimed Husillos has been sent to Norway to scout Meling over the new couple of games, starting with Thursday’s Europa League clash at home to Sporting before then watching Sunday’s league game against FK Bodo/Glimt.
Meling’s current deal expires in December 2020 and with no signs of an extension on the horizon, Rosenborg may decide to sell the defender in one of the next two transfer windows to ensure they get a good amount for the player.
If the Norwegian does end up arriving at the London Stadium, it would spell bad news for one of either Masuaku or Cresswell as Pellegrini will need to free up space in his squad.
Reports are suggesting Cresswell, who joined the Hammers in July 2014 from Ipswich Town, would be moved on as he is four years older than DR Congo international Masuaku.
Meling’s potential arrival could help to sharpen up a West Ham defence that has conceded 14 times in the league this term, keeping just three clean sheets from 11 games.
The Hammers lost their last game 3-2 at home to Newcastle United and Pellegrini’s men will be hoping to bounce back in Saturday’s trip to Turf Moor, when they take on Burnley.