West Ham attacker 'targeted by two Championship clubs' amid Southampton nightmare

The 28-year-old is currently spending the campaign on loan at Southampton, who are struggling in their quest to avoid an immediate return to the second tier.

On the fringes of Russell Martin's first-team plans, Cornet has featured in just four competitive matches for Southampton, totalling 188 minutes of action.

The Ivorian attacker has just played for 71 minutes across two Premier League appearances, with the South Coast club rooted to the bottom of the league standings.

Since making the high-profile move from Burnley to West Ham permanently during the summer of 2022, Cornet has scored only once during 37 matches for the East London club.

West Ham attacker Cornet wanted by Championship duo?

According to 225 Foot, West Ham's Cornet could be heading towards a change of scenery in the English game during the January transfer window.

The report claims that due to his lack of game time at St Mary's Stadium, the 28-year-old could see his loan deal at Southampton end prematurely.

Should such a move occur, it is believed that Championship sides Blackburn and Watford are waiting in the wings to secure the services of Cornet.

It is understood that John Eustace's Rovers would be keen on a permanent acquisition, whilst the Hornets are targeting a temporary deal for the player.

Cornet is supposedly determined to earn a spot for Ivory Coast at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, meaning that assurances of game time will be a massive factor in the decision regarding his next club.

Who needs Cornet more?

Cornet earned a positive reputation during his debut season in England at Burnley, for whom he bagged nine goals during the 2021-22 Premier League campaign.

As a result, it is fair to say that the exciting winger would be a serious coup for a Championship side, especially one looking for an extra edge in the promotion race.

Blackburn have operated with Tyrhys Dolan off the right flank in recent matches to good effect, although Cornet would undoubtedly represent an upgrade.

With Georgia international Giorgi Chakvetadze playing off the left side for Watford, the addition of Cornet on the other wing could make Tom Cleverley's men one of the deadliest outfits in the division.

Written by

Carter White