West Ham target Carl Jenkinson for third loan spell

Carl Jenkinson has emerged as a surprise January loan target for West Ham, as he fails to cement a starting berth at Arsenal, according to the Evening Standard. 

The 24-year-old has made only a handful of appearances for the Gunners so far this campaign and doesn’t look likely to unsettle the talented Hector Bellerin, who has established himself as one of the finest full-backs in the league. Even in the Spaniard’s absence, Wenger has preferred to play centre-back Gabriel out wide, contributing to speculation concerning Jenkinson’s future.

The manager’s decision came off the back of a number of difficult performances from Jenkinson, who has come under scrutiny, particularly following Arsenal’s 2-0 home defeat to Southampton in the EFL Cup.

Despite this, various news outlets are reporting that West Ham are looking to bolster their injury-plagued defence by bringing the defender in for a third loan spell, after being impressed by his contribution in the previous two seasons. They may face competition for his signature from Hull, Swansea and Championship side Aston Villa, who are all reportedly interested in the Englishman’s services.