Sergi Roberto training alone amid West Ham United transfer links
Former Barcelona star Sergi Roberto is training on his own amid links with a summer transfer to West Ham United, according to Diario AS.
The Spanish newspaper reported in its print edition on Saturday (27 July, page nine) that the two-time Champions League winner is working alone with a physical trainer ahead of the new season.
Julen Lopetegui’s side, Premier League rivals Aston Villa and Ajax are all interested in signing the midfielder this summer with his priority understood to be a move out of Spain.
In an ideal world, Roberto would like to pen a new deal with Barcelona however Hansi Flick’s side don’t appear to be as eager to get such a deal over the line ahead of the new campaign.
Will Sergio Roberto join West Ham United amid summer transfer speculation?
The Hammers have had an excellent start to the summer transfer window, but they will be looking for a few more additions just to bolster their ranks ahead of Lopetegui’s first campaign in charge at the London Stadium.
While Roberto’s stock may have fallen in the last few years, he is still an excellent player capable of playing in several different positions which could really appeal to the Hammers boss.
During his time at Barcelona, the 32-year-old has played as a wide midfielder, a central midfielder, a full-back and even as an out-and-out winger. That adaptability could be incredibly helpful, particularly given the lack of depth at fullback.
Unless a deal can be struck for summer target Aaron Wan-Bissaka [Mirror, 23 July] Lopetegui will only have Vladimir Coufal to call upon on the right side of defence this season.
While the Czech international has been incredibly reliable throughout his time in East London, his future remains up in the air and it isn’t clear if he will still be at the London Stadium by the end of the season.
With Roberto available on a free transfer, this seems like the sort of deal West Ham would be stupid to turn down, as long as the 32-year-old’s wage demands aren’t ridiculous.
In other West Ham news, a Lewis Orford exit update has emerged at the London Stadium amid “advanced” Jhon Duran talks
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