WHZView: West Ham could miss out on Attila Szalai
West Ham could miss out on signing Fenerbahce defender Attila Szalai in the January window.
Earlier this month, Sky Sports reported that the Hammers are keen to sign the Hungarian international.
Premier League rivals Newcastle and Serie A giants AC Milan are also thought to be interested in signing the Hungary defender who would cost in the region of £16.7m (€20m)
However, according to latest reports from The Chronicle, the Magpies have been offered the chance to sign the 24-year-old as an alternative to Diego Carlos with Sevilla playing hardball.
The Magpies have the funds to buy whoever they want. In theory, they have a better chance of landing the Hungary international at St James’ Park this month.
He has done well for the Turkish club, having averaged 1.3 tackles and 1.4 interceptions in 21 Super Lig appearances (Whoscored).
West Ham do need to sign a defender this month, and Szalai would have been a smart addition given he is a left-sided centre-back.
However, doubts remain whether the Hammers will at all buy a centre-back before the end of this month, with Kurt Zouma set to return shortly.
If West Ham do sign a defender this month, they should look to bring someone with proven Premier League experience, and getting a player like Nat Phillips would make more sense.
In other West Ham news, an amazing attacker is making personal arrangements for Hammers switch in January.
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