Manchester United could well have been dealt a huge blow to their pursuit of Reece Oxford from West Ham. The 17-year-old burst onto the scene last season and impressed in his 7 senior appearances for the club. He also looked the part for England Under 19s, so much so that both Manchester United and City are in for the youngster.

It is claimed the Hammers slapped an £18million price-tag on Oxford after being involved in a contractual stand-off with the defender over wages and bonuses, with Oxford apparently rejecting the offer of a new deal. So it seemed a potential transfer away from West Ham was on the cards. That was, however, until a West Ham insider revealed to The Sun that the defender is still very much in Bilic’s plans this season.

“Reece has developed over the summer.” an insider told The Sun.

“He has been away with England and looks what we have always believed him to be, a player of huge potential. It’s obviously down to the manager, but it will be a shock to many if he isn’t a regular first team squad member. He will get his chance at the back this season. We are very excited by the potential in the lad.”

“There’s no question his progress was a factor in the decision to let James Tomkins go to Crystal Palace. This will come as a blow for City and United, who were keen on signing the youngster.”

[Quotes sourced from The Express]

Should United be in for the youngster, it would be interesting to see just how much of a fee it may take for the London club to part ways with their star youngster.