West Ham join Arsenal in chase for Celtic star

West Ham have entered the running to sign Celtic defender Virgil van Dijk.

The former Holland Under-21 international has been strongly linked with a move to Arsenal when the transfer window re-opens in January as Arsene Wenger looks to ease his defensive problems.

Arsenal came close to signing him on transfer deadline day during the summer but the move never materialised.

Van Dijk has been one of the star performers for the Scottish champions and has also attracted interest from a number of clubs across Europe.

But West Ham are also monitoring his progress and Sam Allardyce is keen to add another centre-half to his squad as speculation continues to surround the long-term future of Winston Reid, who is out of contract next summer.

The two London clubs could be set for a bidding war in the New Year with Celtic reported to want at least £7m for Van Dijk's signature.