West Ham Chase Ricketts

Last updated : 22 June 2005 By Richard Evans
West Ham are allegedly interested in adding Welsh International Sam Ricketts to their squad, as they attempt to bolster their side for next season's Premiership. Hammers' boss Alan Pardew is hoping to add a full-back to his West Ham side, with Ricketts top of his summer spending list.

Ricketts has been arguably Jackett's greatest signing for the South Wales club - joining from non-league AFC Telford last summer on a free transfer. Now after a whirlwind of a season that has seen Ricketts blast onto the International scene with Wales, the fans' favourite could be set to complete a fantastic year and join the Premiership.

The club are currently in talks with the Welsh International over a new two year contract extension, although negotiations are taking longer than expected. Any deal would depend upon the two clubs agreeing a fee, which could prove to be quite substantial due to Swansea's hopes of keeping hold of the player.