FC Rostov striker Sardar Azmoun has been linked with a move away from Russia, with West Ham reportedly in the driving seat ahead of Arsenal to procure his signature.

The Iranian international, has been linked with Arsenal and AC Milan and is expected to make the switch from the Olimp-2 in order to further his development at a higher level, according to recent reports.

Azmoun was linked with a move to Liverpool in his past but turned them down due to fears of playing time. He believed he would spend large periods outside of the matchday squad given the stiff competition for place.

But this summer, the 22-year-old could be open to a switch, leaving a number of clubs on alert this summer. Azmoun scored and created 18 goals in 40 games in all competitions last season, three of which came in six Champions League outings.

Called the “Iranian Messi”, he made just 20 starts in the Russian Premier League for Rostov, scoring only seven times which may put off some suitors, but Arsenal have been linked for some time and West Ham are doing everything in their power to sign a decent striker.

AC Milan have been very busy in the transfer market this summer and won’t hesitate to sign Azmoun if they deem his potential worth it. No longer a kid, the striker turns 23 in January so clubs may be wanting better outlay before making an official bid.