According to a report by Italian news outlet La Gazzetta dello Sport, via Sport Witness, West Ham United are in the ‘front row’ to sign Juventus ace Aaron Ramsey alongside Crystal Palace.
The Lowdown: Ramsey shining for Wales…
The midfielder has endured a mixed few seasons in Italy since his move to Turin from Arsenal, suffering consistent injury issues and playing a somewhat bit-part role.
Ramsey, however, has been shining for Wales on the international stage lately and starred during their 2-0 victory over Turkey in the group stage on Wednesday afternoon.
He bagged the opening goal for Rob Page’s side and really impressed alongside fellow star man Gareth Bale (Wales Online).
The Latest: West Ham now in ‘front row’ for player
West Ham, as explained by La Gazzetta, are ‘in the front row’ for Ramsey alongside Premier League competitors Crystal Palace.
[web_stories_embed url=”https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/west-ham-latest/” title=”West Ham latest!” poster=”” width=”360″ height=”600″ align=”none”]
It is also claimed that the Irons have ‘already moved to test the waters’, presumably meaning an enquiry of some kind has been made.
The outlet is in full belief that Ramsey will definitely leave Juventus this summer with his time ‘coming to an end’.
Juventus, however, may face a battle to offload given his €7 million-per-year (£6 million) salary – which roughly translates to around €134,000-per-week (£115,000).
The Verdict: Bigger priorities…
There are three non-negotiable West Ham positions which need strengthening this summer.
Indeed, the club’s priorities should certainly be a permanent deal for Jesse Lingard, a new centre-back and, last but certainly not least, the long overdue acquisition of a star centre-forward.
Other positions arguably take less precedent and swooping for Ramsey would still be a huge gamble regardless of his form at international level.
Sol Campbell, speaking to talkSPORT after Ramsey’s performance against Turkey, called him a ‘top, top class player’ – but we believe he isn’t top class enough for West Ham to prioritise this summer given his injury record.
In other news: ‘I’m hearing’…McAvennie makes major transfer claim involving reported West Ham target, find out more here.