West Ham ‘test water’ for Kristjan Asllani transfer, Inter Milan respond
West Ham have approached Inter Milan over the potential signing of Kristjan Asllani, according to FC Inter News.
The Italian source reported [30 January] that the Hammers, who are searching for a new midfielder, tested the waters with the Serie A side, being greeted by a “polite but firm refusal” in recent days.
Teams in Italy are also keeping tabs on the 22-year-old Albanian, with Graham Potter’s side making their voice well-heard in the race for Asllani’s signature, but it is understood the East London club already have their answer [Inter Live].
Graham Potter looking to reinforce West Ham United midfield?
With Edson Alvarez and Guido Rodriguez the only choices at defensive-midfield, it is no wonder why Potter is on the lookout for a talented player to fill that role, and Asllani is good enough to be the answer.
The Hammers often struggle in possession, with the current set of players not so comfortable with the ball at their feet, and Asllani could certainly add some calmness to the starting XI.
The Albanian international has 81 appearances for Inter, and in addition to the 29 caps for his national team, he clearly has enough experience despite only being 22 years of age.
Potter needs someone who can take control in the middle of the park, and while Alvarez can be that player, the Mexican is far too inconsistent, especially when it comes to disciplinary problems.
With the likes of Tomas Soucek, Lucas Paqueta, Carlos Soler and Mohammed Kudus, the Irons are more than stocked in the attacking midfield areas, but the defensive side is certainly a concern this window.
If the Hammers cannot bring in a new face before the winter transfer window shuts on 3 February, it could be a rather long and difficult second half of the season in East London.
In other West Ham news, “surprise” has emerged at the London Stadium as a bid is launched for a new striker.
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