Director of football Husillos

Hammers director of football Mario Husillos’ decision to make the trip to China is causing a few questions to be asked as vital transfer negotiations continue over striker Sebastien Haller’s proposed switch to east London.

It’s hard to understand why he should have chosen to accompany Manuel Pellegrini and the squad at such a time or to accept an explanation from one insider that “the boss likes to have him around when games are being played.”

Speaking to Claret and Hugh on the phone our source said: “Talks are continuing and it’s helpful that Haller speaks very good English but the manager and Mario like to be together watching everything on the field of play at this stage of the season.”

He added: “Everybody keeps in touch by e mail and mobile phone so it doesn’t represent a major problem.”

However, that overlooks internet censorship in China which is a big issue and the time difference is also a problem  with the UK seven hours ahead and Germany six.”

It may well be that we are now beyond issues over the player’s personal terms and that a fee and payment plan has to be arranged with Eintracht Frankfurt.

And should that be the case it would be more likely that co chairman David Sullivan will be doing the negotiating  whilst Husillos is in China.

One thing is for sure, the Hammers are in intense discussions with Eintracht Frankfurt although our source admitted that a fallback position had been prepared should talks collapse.

He said: “We have around four strikers we are looking hard at although Haller is obviously the one at the top of our list.”