Fabrizio Romano has dealt something of a knockout blow to West Ham’s transfer hopes with his latest update.
Late last night, the football transfer ITK revealed the news many Hammers fans were half expecting when he gave an update on the future of Jacob Ramsey.
The Aston Villa midfielder had been frequently referred to as Graham Potter’s top target, but now it appears he’ll be heading to the North East and Newcastle.
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Despite nearly three weeks of talks and West Ham having the ear of his agent Will Salthouse, it seems Ramsey only has eyes for Newcastle.
Speaking on his X account, Romano said:
“Understand Newcastle are closing in on Jacob Ramsey deal with Aston Villa!
Agreement almost done for £40m package as clubs are finalising the deal and then… here we go. ⚪️⚫️🔜
Despite West Ham approach, Ramsey only wants Newcastle as #NUFC move is now imminent.”
Realistically, once Eddie Howe’s Magpies entered the bidding, we never really stood a chance given the gulf between the two clubs at present.
Ramsey was wanted by West Ham boss Potter but now Newcastle look set to land him
The Hammers must now focus all efforts on landing Southampton’s Mateus Fernandes, for whom the club bid £30m yesterday. Sealing the signing of the Saints youngster would provide an instant antidote to missing out on Ramsey — but Irons bosses will need to move quickly, with the beginning of the season only four days away.