Stoke City could be facing an uphill battle to keep Joe Allen at the club in the January transfer window if recent reports are anything to go by.

According to the Daily Express, West Ham United are reportedly interested in signing the midfielder for £12m as they look to bolster their options for the remainder of the 2019/20 campaign.

Allen, who has been capped at international level by Wales on 53 occasions, joined Stoke from Liverpool in 2016 for a reported fee of £13m.

Although the midfielder has been able to illustrate glimpses of his undoubted talent this season in the Championship, he has struggled considerably for consistency in recent months.

Given that Stoke are currently 21st in the second-tier standings, it will be intriguing to see whether they will allow Allen to leave next month.

Here, in our latest six-pointer article, we assess whether Allen would be a good signing for West Ham whilst also taking a look at how big of an impact his absence could have on the Potters' fortunes.

Firstly, why do West Ham need to bolster their squad in January?

"Despite signing a host of players in the summer, West Ham have experienced a dismal start to the season in the Premier League which has resulted in them slipping down to 17th in the Premier League standings.

"Currently facing the prospect of a relegation battle, it is imperative that the Irons bring in some fresh faces in January as a failure to do so could potentially result in disaster."

Is Allen the right fit for the Irons?

"Whilst it is safe to say that Allen has yet to hit top-form in the Championship this season, he has illustrated in the past that he is more than capable of delivering the goods at the highest level for club and country.

"As well as having an eye for a pass, the former Liverpool man is certainly not afraid to make a crunching tackle when necessary and thus these qualities could come in handy for West Ham who are lacking some assertiveness in the heart of their midfield."

Could the midfielder's previous experiences at Premier League level help West Ham?

"Before joining Liverpool in 2012, Allen played a major role in helping Swansea City establish themselves as a mainstay in the Premier League by producing a number of eye-catching displays in this division.

"Having played 199 games in the top-flight during his career, the midfielder's presence at the London Stadium may help West Ham get back on track under the guidance of new manager David Moyes."

Can Stoke retain their Championship status without Allen?

"Losing Allen in January could be a major blow for Stoke's hopes of retaining their Championship status for another season as they are already lacking quality in midfield.

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"Given that the Welshman's existing deal at the bet365 Stadium doesn't run out until 2022, it could be argued that the Potters may find it beneficial to keep him rather than selling him next month."

Will the Potters be able to sign a sufficient replacement for the midfielder?

"With quality players at this level often demanding premium prices, there is no guarantee that Stoke will be able to sign a sufficient replacement for Allen if they do allow him to leave.

"Therefore, unless manager Michael O'Neill has someone lined up, the Potters ought to hold their ground if West Ham do indeed submit an official bid for the midfielder."

Is £12m a fair price for Allen in today's market?

"Although Allen has been relatively underwhelming for the Potters since their relegation to the Championship last year, a £12m fee may be justified given his previous experiences in the top-flight.

"Whilst West Ham will be securing the services of a player who knows exactly what it takes to succeed in the Premier League, Stoke could use the money gained from his sale to re-invest in January."