Galatasaray chief makes Michail Antonio transfer decision at West Ham United
Galatasaray technical director Okan Buruk has dismissed a transfer for West Ham United star Michail Antonio, according to Takvim.
The news outlet reports [21 November] that the Super Lig champions are looking to sign a striker in January, and representatives have knocked on their doors to market Antonio.
Antonio has been at the Hammers since 2015, but his contract is set to expire at the end of the season.
West Ham United need to move on from Michail Antonio
The 34-year-old has been a brilliant servant for the Irons, playing in multiple positions before making the number nine spot his own.
West Ham have struggled to score goals, though, as of late, and the Jamaica international can’t be blamed as he’s never been a prolific striker.
The Hammers did sign Niclas Fullkrug this summer, but the German has been out injured for most of the season, and Tim Steidten’s decision to sign the former Borussia Dortmund star has raised many eyebrows.
Antonio was likely to play more of a backup role at the start of the campaign, but developments at the London Stadium have meant that the veteran forward has had to be relied upon heavily.
It doesn’t reflect well if Galatasaray don’t want a player who Julen Lopetegui has given multiple starts this term.
If the Irons were to make a move for a new number nine in January, then getting Antonio off their books early could be an option for them, but that remains unlikely.
With one goal in 11 Premier League appearances, it is time for everyone to move on at the end of this season.
In other West Ham news, Antonio could play a decisive role in Julen Lopetegui’s future.
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