Federico Gatti
West Ham target Federico Gatti
Last week, Sport Witness covered claims about West Ham’s interest in Juventus defender Federico Gatti.
IlBianconero reported on the centre-back’s situation, after he returned to action some weeks ago following a long-term injury. Multiple clubs have made enquiries for him and the Old Lady are open to a summer sale.
The situation was attracting West Ham, who were told they’d have to pay a significant fee for the Italian.
Updates are now emerging about the centre-back, who is also of interest to Nottingham Forest.
Nottingham Forest and West Ham battling
TuttoSport report on Gatti losing prominence under Luciano Spalletti. He is less central to the project in Turin and can depart if suitors offer €20m.
AC Milan had attempted a swap deal in January and they also failed with an initial loan for the Italy international.
Now, Juve are more open to his departure, with West Ham and Nottingham Forest interested.
The more concrete candidature comes from France, with Lyon moving quickly for Gatti. ‘Contacts have begun’ between the two clubs, with Lyon also having spoken to the player’s entourage.
Paulo Fonseca, who saw Gatti from up close during his time at AC Milan, is keen on signing him. This comes as a major threat to Nottingham Forest and West Ham, who may have to move quickly.
Gatti presents a reliable option
The 27-year-old has his fair share of critics in Italy due to his lack of ability on the ball. But more often than not, he has been fairly reliable for the Bianconeri.
He has also sometimes chipped in with goals from set-pieces, using his aerial ability quite well.
Gatti has featured in a back four and in a back three in Turin, showcasing that he can be quite a handy option for clubs. While he might not be a key player, he could be a decent squad player for both West Ham and Nottingham Forest.
Both clubs are no strangers to signing players from Serie A. Gatti can be a decent opportunity, especially considering the price-tag.