Divock Origi transfer stance at AC Milan explained as West Ham United dialogue news emerges
The name of AC Milan ace Divock Origi has ended up in the dialogues with West Ham on two occasions, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
The publication noted that the ex-Liverpool striker was mentioned when discussing a transfer and when proposing an exchange for current Hammers man Gianluca Scamacca.
But the Belgian centre-forward is happy at the Serie A club and wants to stay there beyond the summer, La Gazzetta dello Sport added.
“At the top of Milan, the first season of the 28-year-old Belgian was enough to sum up and decide: Origi is out of the project and is on the market,” according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“The Belgian’s name ended up in the dialogues with West Ham on two occasions, to discuss his transfer and to propose an exchange with Scamacca.
“In both cases, Origi has made it known that he wants to stay, strengthened by a contract until 2026.”
Great option
Given Origi’s desire to stay in Milan, and with his contract not expiring until 2026, it may seem like a difficult task for West Ham to bring the striker back to England.
That is, of course, if they want to do that, with nothing concrete at all about the forward’s potential return to the Premier League.
But the Hammers will take comfort in knowing that Milan want to move Origi on this summer in order to free up space and funds in their squad.
He really hasn’t hit the heights expected of him in Italy, and a move to the London Stadium could definitely help get his career back on track.
It would also really suit the Hammers who are in real need of attacking reinforcements ahead of the new season, particularly if current striker Scamacca does leave East London this summer.
Origi left Anfield a cult hero, and he could earn similar status if he switches Milan for London and immediately hits the ground running.
In other West Ham news, the club have appointed a new Mark Noble assistant as one boyhood Hammers fan changes his role.