Troy Parrott told to reject Premier League for Championship – but he casts doubt on transfer

Troy Parrott has seemingly poured cold water on a potential move to West Ham, claiming the ‘football world is a lot bigger than England.’

talkSPORT understands the Hammers are making a strong push to sign Parrott, who has netted an impressive 51 goals in the last two seasons for Dutch side AZ Alkmaar.

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However, West Ham don’t necessarily have a clear run at the Republic of Ireland international.

It is also understood Fulham, Ajax, PSV Eindhoven, Real Betis and Como have all expressed an interest in Parrott, who was previously on Tottenham’s books for seven years.

Even though the Hammers may be leading the race, Parrott is not as hot on a return to England as he once used to be.

What did Troy Parrott say about rumours linking him back to England?

In an interview with Dutch publication De Telegraaf, the 24-year-old admitted his move to AZ has opened his eyes to football beyond English shores.

“Before I went to the Netherlands, I was completely focused on England,” Parrott said.

“I dreamed of the Premier League.

“But once in the Netherlands, I discovered that the football world is a lot bigger than England.”

PSV, Como and Betis’ interest may be particularly intriguing for Parrott given the trio can all offer Champions League football this season.

Betis return to Europe’s premier club competition for the first time in over two decades while Como, led by Cesc Fabregas, will make their Champions League debut.

As for Fulham, Parrott would join at the dawn of a new era given Alvaro Arbeloa is the new man in charge.

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Parrott would also have competition for a starting role given the Cottagers acquired striker Gonzalo Garcia, who earned his first cap with Spain in June, from Real Madrid earlier this summer.

A move to West Ham would have Parrott tasked with helping the club secure an instant return to the Premier League following their relegation.

Andy Townsend’s verdict on Troy Parrott being linked to West Ham

Although the Hammers are in the second tier of English football, Andy Townsend is adamant a player of Parrott’s ilk would tear it up.

“Good finisher, Troy Parrott,” Townsend said on talkSPORT Breakfast.

“He definitely has that knack of being in and around where that ball is going to drop. He sees it, he recognises it and when he gets there, he can finish, he really can. He’s done very well in Holland.”

Townsend added: “Honestly, I think someone like Troy can work at a club like West Ham.

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“(Taty) Castellanos is full of running, Troy is not that sort of player, he doesn’t want to charge around all over the place.

“But when it comes in the box and there’s others in there with him, he seems to get a yard of space and he can finish.”

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