AC Milan submit Divock Origi exchange deal to West Ham for Gianluca Scamacca, loan swap on the cards
Italian giants AC Milan have explored the chance of a swap deal with West Ham for Gianluca Scamacca in exchange for their former Liverpool star Divock Origi, according to Gazzetta dello Sport.
In their print edition (6 July, page 11), the outlet claims that potential loan deals would see Origi return to the Premier League and Scamacca head back to Serie A after the Italian’s disappointing debut season at the London Stadium.
Meanwhile, the outlet also links the Rossoneri with a move for Atletico Madrid forward Alvaro Morata, but a move for Scamacca, who has also been linked with a loan move to Roma [Corriere dello Sport], may benefit West Ham.
Suitable swap?
Scamacca’s move away from West Ham after just one season is looking more and more likely. Interest from around Europe, especially from his native Italy, has been swirling and AC Milan are among the sides to enquire about the striker.
The Italian international failed to live up to his £30million price tag [Independent] after arriving on the back of a 16-goal haul for Sassuolo. His total of three league goals was not enough to cement himself into the side, and injuries during the season did little to help his case.
But there is quality in Scamacca, and perhaps a move back to Italy will benefit a player who will no doubt be eyeing the 2024 European Championships and hope to make Roberto Mancini’s squad, should they qualify.
But from Milan’s interest in Scamacca emerges a potentially interesting move for West Ham in the form of Liverpool cult hero Divock Origi. He has proven that he can perform for English sides, with his Champions League success with the Reds among his career highlights.
In the Premier League, however, Origi has never performed to a top-class standard with his best goals return being just four in 2019/20. However, the forward never managed more than seven league starts for Liverpool and was never first choice under Jurgen Klopp, who often opted for Roberto Firminio.
Perhaps given a starting role in a steadily-improving West Ham side may see the Belgian improve his goal tally. Last season was the first time he achieved double figures for matches started, so he may relish the opportunity for consistent game time back in the English top flight.
His excellent performances in European competition may help convince West Ham as they bid to go far in the Europa League next season.
However, he would be a risk for West Ham. Perhaps with their new Declan Rice funds, they may wish to splash on a proven and prolific asset as they bid to compete in both the Premier League and Europa League.