West Ham could still beat Serie A champions Napoli to the signature of AC Milan midfielder Yunus Musah, according to reports in the Italian media.
The American international looked set to make a move to the Partenopei but Tuttosport claims an “agreement” between the two clubs has not been reached, with negotiations having stalled over performance-related add-ons.
They suggest that the Hammers “could come back in” to the equation, having been mentioned as a potential competitor for Napoli last week.
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At the time, it was reported that Graham Potter’s side had arrived too late to the negotiating table but things have now changed.
West Ham are keen to add more dynamism in midfield
The likes of Edson Alvarez, Guido Rodriguez, James Ward-Prowse and Tomas Soucek are not exactly blessed with a great deal of pace, and Potter is keen to bring in midfielders who can get about the pitch.
Musah certainly fits the bill. There are question marks about his ability in possession but the 22-year-old is a bundle of energy and would add much-needed legs.
Musah would be returning to London if he moved to the Irons
The American came through Arsenal’s academy. He was at Hale End until he left on a free transfer for La Liga side Valencia in the summer of 2019.
Musah spent the best part of four years in Spain before he sealed a €20m switch to Milan. It is believed that the Rossoneri are holding out for at least €25m (£21.4m) to let him go.
Considering that West Ham are not exactly in a great position financially, it remains to be seen whether they can actually afford the player. They may even try their luck with a loan proposal.
In other news, the manager of a West Ham target has declared that the player will not be moving clubs