Football Corner

West Ham United have splashed the cash today to sign former Crewe striker Dean Ashton for an initial fee of £7million and the deal could rise to as much as £7.25million. Ashton, 22, has agreed personal terms and will undergo a medical - with the Hammers hoping to unveil him before Monday night's game against Fulham. Ashton, a former England Under-21 international, scored 18 goals in 46 games for Norwich following a £3m move to Carrow Road from Crewe a year ago.

Crewe will receive £1.5m up front as part of a sell-on clause included in that deal. Norwich will receive an extra £125,000 if Ashton makes a competitive appearance for the senior England team and an extra £125,000 if West Ham qualify for Europe while Ashton is at the club. Hammers manager Alan Pardew is a long-term admirer of Ashton and was keen to bolster his forward line, despite persuading Bobby Zamora to sign a new contract on 18 January.

I believe that £7million is a little bit too much for Ashton although I do think he is a good player and will do alright at the Hammers. Ashton has had a taste of the Premiership already with Norwich and he did well and he will now get a second bite at the cherry in the Prem. Great news for Crewe but it is sort of mixed news for Norwich because they have gained £7million but they have lost their best player.