West Ham United serves as a big chance for Darren Fletcher to get new lease of life

New Delhi: Premier League club West Ham United are reportedly closing in for a free transfer of Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher. The 30-year-old Scot who has played all his life for the Red Devils, has found his chances hard to come by under manager Louis van Gaal.

Fletcher has been an old Manchester faithful and was earlier assigned as the club's vice-captain in beginning of the season. But the return of Michael Carrick saw him take over as Wayne Rooney's deputy and Fletcher's role was brought to an end. With having just figured in 12 matches this term across all competitions, Fletcher has fallen behind the likes of Michael Carrick, Daley Blind, Ander Herrera and Marouane Fellaini​ in the midfield section.

West Ham United is reportedly the front-runner in getting the services of Fletcher for free as the player's contract expires this summer. Also the likes of West Brom, Celtic and Valencia have all also shown an interest.

Fletcher has been at United since he was 11 years old and made his first team breakthrough in 2003 and became a major part of former manager Sir Alex Ferguson's squad.

A serious ulcerative colitis hindered his career as that saw him miss football for more than 10 months. His comeback was lauded and it soon looked like he would be important for United, but that wasn't to be so.

If a move is finalised by West Ham in this week, it will be a huge significant factor for Fletcher. The Man United old guard still has a few years of football left in him and he needs pivotal game time to showcase his presence on the field. West Ham who are in contention for an European place this term so far, will be a good destination for Fletcher as manager Sam Allardyce is a huge admirer of the Scot.

The addition of Alex Song who is on loan from Barcelona has been a wise move from Allardyce and Fletcher will add a lot of experience alongside. 

If he does stay back, United will allow him to leave on the summer as Van Gaal prepares for another squad exodus.

Fletcher made 342 appearances for United winning five Premier League titles, two League Cups an FA Cup and the Champions League.