Leeds Defender Byram Chooses West Ham

Leeds full-back Sam Byram has chosen to join West Ham although a deal is yet to be done between the two clubs, according to Sky sources.

Everton earlier fell out of the running to sign the 22-year-old despite agreeing a fee with Leeds, leaving West Ham in pole position to sign the highly-rated right-back.

Everton boss Roberto Martinez confirmed last week that they had made an approach and Sky sources reported that a deal was subsequently agreed between the two clubs, but West Ham then entered the fray, leaving Byram with a decision to make.

Byram was left out of the Leeds 18-man matchday squad at the weekend, and Whites boss Steve Evans revealed on Saturday that the 22-year-old had been given permission to speak to Everton by Leeds president Massimo Cellino.

But the defender, who can also play in midfield, appears to be set for a move to Upton Park, unless there are any further twists in the tale.

Cellino was quoted in several newspapers as saying: "I'm really sorry for Everton because they really acted like gentlemen, but Sam chose West Ham."

Byram is a product of the Leeds academy, making over 140 appearances since debuting in 2012, but with his current contract set to expire at the end of the season, Cellino has opted to cash in on the player.