Divock Origi to jet into UK on deadline day amid last-minute West Ham United speculation
AC Milan forward Divock Origi could still make the move to West Ham United in a late deadline day deal, according to Graeme Bailey.
The 90min reporter claimed (1 September) that Origi is “a name to keep an eye on”, with the Hammers joining Crystal Palace, Burnley, Nottingham Forest and Fulham in showing interest in the former Liverpool star this week.
Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth revealed that Origi is set to jet into the UK on deadline day, with Belgian “currently in Milan” to finalise his exit after his representatives held meetings with Burnley and Forest.
Five-horse race?
West Ham could face stiff competition if they are to secure the Champions League winner’s signature.
If Sheth is to be believed, Burnley and Forest are leading the race after recent talks with representatives, but if the Hammers want to get their man, they certainly have the finances and pull to convince Origi.
What is almost guaranteed is that Origi will no longer be an AC Milan player. His debut season in Serie A was disappointing and he has been left out of the Rossoneri squad in their opening league fixtures.
While he has never been a scorer of many goals, his two-goal return in 36 total appearances leaves a lot to be desired and prospective clubs will hope he boosts these numbers of he returns to the Premier League.
However, Origi has performed well in the Premier League and in Europe across his career. He managed 41 goals across 175 appearances for Liverpool in his seven-year stint in Merseyside. A bulk of these appearances were from the bench, so he will have a decent goals-per-90 record.
What Origi is a specialist in is European football. His exploits with Liverpool in their historic Champions League run in 2018/19 gave him something of a cult status at Anfield, but having played in Europe for seven of the last 10 seasons, he brings vital experience to David Moyes’ side.
But the Hammers have plenty of competition to fend off first, but Origi’s future at least is destined for England.
In other West Ham news, the Hammers have “made it known” they will spend 38.5million for their striker target.