Fabrizio Romano: West Ham United make contact with Juventus for Denis Zakaria
West Ham United have made contact with Juventus over the possibility of signing former Chelsea loanee Denis Zakaria, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The 26-year-old has returned to Italy after an unsuccessful loan spell in West London and the Hammers are believed to be one of a number of clubs interested.
Romano has taken to Twitter and detailed West Ham’s interest with the Switzerland international not in Juventus’ plans next season.
“Understand West Ham are among clubs interested in signing Denis Zakaria. He’s back to Juventus after Chelsea loan,” wrote the Guardian journalist (22 June).
“West Ham asked for information on the conditions of the deal — but there are many clubs in the race. Zakaria is not in Juventus’ plan for next season.”
Good age
The 26-year-old showed glimpses of what he is capable of at Chelsea but probably fell foul to the huge influx of players at Stamford Bridge.
Had he been given gametime, the outcome of his loan spell could have been very different. However, this could prove to be a smart piece of work from the board. Zakaria is a good age and could develop further if he does move to the London Stadium.
He’s played at some big clubs in the past but could now be looking for more minutes as he looks to get his career back on track.
Furthermore, Juventus’ financial problems could also provide the Hammers with a boost. The Serie A side’s well-documented problems mean they could be looking to offload players in order to balance the books – therefore a bargain deal could be struck by David Moyes and the board.
With Declan Rice almost certain to depart, a top-quality midfielder has to arrive during the summer window – Zakaria could well be that man.