Reece Oxford to Manchester United: United 'preparing' £8m January bid for West Ham teenager

The 16-year-old has made six appearances for the Hammers this season

West Ham's Reece Oxford (GETTY IMAGES)

Manchester United are preparing an £8m bid for West Ham teenager Reece Oxford, according to reports.

The Times have reported today that United will make an approach for the 16-year-old, who can play in both defence and midfield, in the January transfer window.

Oxford turns 17 this month and is then expected to sign a two-and-a-half year deal with the Hammers, but the report states that the club are unable to tie him down for any longer because of FA rules preventing players under the age of 18 from signing three-year deals.

Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool are also interested in the player, but West Ham are reportedly determined to keep him at Upton Park. Oxford became West Ham's youngest player when he made his debut at the age of 16 years, 198 days in a Europa League qualifier in July.

Oxford has made six appearances in all competitions for the Hammers this season, breaking into the squad under Slaven Bilic.