After weeks of intense speculation, multiple reliable sources have confirmed that West Ham have tabled a concrete offer for Alpha Toure, the Metz midfielder who has been catching the eye this year. The bid signals the first move in what could be intense negotiations - with the team said to be reluctant to let an important player go unless his valuation is met. The transfer remains in progress, and with no other clubs involved, West Ham look to be negotiating from a comfortable position. West Ham's 25/26 record of 2.05 goals conceded per game shows they're missing balance in midfield. Someone like Alpha Toure could give them more structure and help them manage games. Speculation continues to connect West Ham with Andreas Schjelderup, John McGinn and Bento while no fresh rumours surround Metz. Looking for West Ham transfer rumours? Follow us on Twitter @PlayerSwitchCom for more rumours just like this.