West Ham United transfer news emerges as Lazar Samardzic ‘goodbye’ now close
West Ham are keen to rival Juventus in a transfer race to sign Udinese midfielder Lazar Samardzic who is valued at £25.6million, according to Calcio Mercato.
The Italian news outlet reported on 19 March that the midfielder is close to saying goodbye to his club after playing just 16 minutes in Udinese’s last three games.
It is said, however, that West Ham will have to be convinced by his performances on the pitch before deciding to invest £25.6million in securing a deal to bring him to the London Stadium.
Could West Ham sign Lazar Samardzic this summer?
The Hammers’ interest in Samardzic has been long-standing, having been linked with a potential deal to sign him after his move to Italian giants Inter Milan fell through at the last minute. Now, given his frustrations in Italy, that interest has returned.
Reports from Itlay last summer also claimed that West Ham view him as a potential replacement for Lucas Paqueta, who at the time was linked with Manchester City. With those rumours still rumbling, the Brazilian’s exit could make way for Samardzic’s arrival.
In 25 Serie A performances this season, the Serbian has scored three goals and provided two assists, and is highly regarded in Italy, having attracted interest from the likes of Inter, Napoli and Juventus, from whom the Hammers face competition.
After a falling out with his manager which led to him being dropped from the side, the ideal chance may have presented itself to David Moyes and Tim Steidten to swoop for their long-term transfer target.
In other West Ham news, an Ivan Toney transfer update has emerged in East London.
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