Exclusive: Centre-back has been on trial at West Ham

John Egan took part in a West Ham practice match before joining Burnley, sources have told Football Insider.

Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that the 31-year-old centre-back played for the Irons last week during a trial spell.

The former Sheffield United captain ultimately chose to move to the Championship as he signed for Burnley, leaving West Ham still searching for a central defender.

The Premier League side let Kurt Zouma and Nayef Aguerd leave the club in the summer transfer window, leaving Julen Lopetegui short in this area of the pitch.

If West Ham were to sustain any injuries in this area then it could prove to be problematic, as Lopetegui would be left scrambling to find viable options.

The Irons are now working “pretty hard” in the free agent market to try and find a suitable centre-back.

John Egan could have solved a West Ham problem

After playing 74 games in the Premier League, Egan may be seen by many as an ideal option for West Ham given his experience.

However, after missing out on the Ireland international the Irons may turn their attention to former Liverpool defender Joel Matip.

He is currently available as a free agent after departing Anfield at the end of last season, and he does tick a lot of boxes that the Irons are looking for.

Football Insider previously revealed that the Hammers are pushing to complete a deal to sign Matip.

Lopetegui wants to strengthen his defensive options before the January transfer window opens as the season kicks into gear.

In other news, West Ham braced for last-gasp Emerson offer – sources.

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