Hammers could pounce for London Stadium hero in summer transfer
The Hammers are reportedly interested in Nicolò Zaniolo, the Galatasaray wide-man currently on loan at Aston Villa.
The Italian will be familiar to Hammers fans following his goal-scoring cameo appearance for Villa at The London Stadium last week. In his brief time on the pitch, Zaniolo appeared to be an excellent player, albeit a slightly feisty one.
The versatile winger joined Villa last summer on a season-long loan, which included an obligation to buy if certain conditions were met. Unfortunately, Zaniolo hasn’t been a regular starter for Emery’s Villa side, meaning the obligation to buy is unlikely to be triggered.
Hammers could pounce for feisty Villa attacker Nicolo Zaniolo
The winger has made 31 appearances in all competitions, however, 21 of those came as substitutes. The player himself has openly told reporters that he’ll leave the Midlands club at the end of the season, which could provide an opportunity for West Ham.
Personally, I like the player. He’s versatile, young, and at £18m, available at a price point which shouldn’t break the bank for West Ham. Clearly, much depends on David Moyes‘ Hammers future, but even if the gaffer does stay, I can see Zaniolo appealing.