West Ham United are interested in signing A.S. Roma midfielder Nicolo Zaniolo, according to a report from Italy.
West Ham rank bottom of the table in terms of big chances created in the Premier League this season, having crafted just 14 clear-cut opportunities, despite David Moyes strengthening considerably in attacking areas last summer.
After a slow start, playmaker Lucas Paqueta has started to put in some better performances recently, scoring against Leeds United earlier this month, but he has registered just two assists in the league all season, and the Hammers are now turning their attention towards new options in attacking midfield.
According to a report from Voce Giallorossa, West Ham is one of the potential destinations for Zaniolo, who is also linked with moves to the likes of Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest.
It is claimed that Roma would seriously consider offers of around £18m – £22m this month, with the player’s agent, Claudio Vigorelli, already making phone calls with Premier League clubs to test the ground over a potential transfer. (via Sport Witness)
TIF thoughts on Zaniolo to West Ham…
With the Irons currently competing in the Europa Conference League, it would be nice for Moyes to have an option already proven in the competition, and the Italian fits the bill, weighing in with five goals and three assists en-route to Roma lifting the trophy last season.
Hailed as ‘devastating’ by current manager Jose Mourinho, the 23-year-old has also displayed his creative talents at a higher level this term, bagging three assists in as many games in the Europa League to help his side progress in second place.
West Ham need a creative spark from somewhere if they are to start turning around their unexpectedly poor season, and given that Zaniolo is said to be available, the club should move swiftly to secure his signature, before another English team wins the race.