Michail Antonio safe at West Ham United for now after latest Saudi Arabia transfer news
The Saudi Arabia revolution is in full swing, but West Ham ace Michail Antonio does not look set to join it, at least for now.
The Jamaica international has been linked with a move to Saudi Pro League club At-Ettifaq, with Sky Sports News reporting on Twitter (20 July) that early talks have been held between the parties.
It would no doubt be a very lucrative move for the 33-year-old who, at this stage of his career, would perhaps be foolish to turn it down.
But it seems that At-Ettifaq’s interest may not be as strong as it was earlier this month, with Steven Gerrard’s new club confirming the signature of fellow striker Moussa Dembele on Wednesday (26 July).
The arrival of the former Lyon and Celtic man follows that of Scotland defender Jack Hendry, with ex-Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson close to completing a deal at the club.
They are clearly trying to strengthen in all areas, but it remains to be seen if Antonio is part of the puzzle under Gerrard.
It will certainly be a boost to Hammers boss David Moyes, who needs all the help he can get in the final third next season.
But given the huge sums of money available and the current trends in Saudi, there is a very real possibility that Al-Ettifaq will want to bring in Antonio alongside Dembele for the new campaign.
There is also the alternative possibility that another Saudi Pro League club could swoop in and make the Hammers man an offer he or his club cannot refuse.
In other West Ham news, one journalist has shared a Hammers transfer verdict amid Tim Steidten “teething problems.”