West Ham United have reportedly move ahead of Newcastle United in the race to sign Hellas Verona midfielder Antonin Barak.
The 27-year-old Czech Republic international has been a standout performer for the Italian outfit so far this season, scoring five goals and registering three assists in 15 Serie A appearances.
According to Sport Witness, Barak would favour a move to the Hammers over Newcastle, as David Moyes's side are competing in Europe, while the Magpies are at risk of relegation to the Championship.
The report adds that European football would play a 'key role' in the midfielder's decision, should he decide to leave Verona in one of the upcoming transfer windows.
Barak only signed a two-year deal to join Verona permanently in July, following a successful loan spell from Udinese, but his performances this campaign are believed to have caught the eye of Premier League clubs as well as Serie A giants AC Milan and Inter Milan.
The midfielder is valued by Verona at around €20m (£17.1m), however the Gialloblu would prefer to wait until the end of the season before considering a potential sale.
Oliver Thomas
