“He’s Not Even Been Discussed” West Ham Insider Kills Romano Rumour

It appears West Ham United are in something of a disagreement with Fabrizio Romano over the club’s upcoming transfer business.

Earlier today, Claret & Hugh exclusively revealed that the Hammers had rubbished rumours linking Lucas Paquetá with a January move to Manchester United. But it doesn’t end there — a top transfer source has also dismissed claims that a United player could be heading in the opposite direction.

Romano had suggested that Joshua Zirkzee was a target for West Ham in January following reports that Niclas Füllkrug could be on his way out. And let’s face it, even if Füllkrug stays, the Hammers still need another striker — so the link made some sense.

However, according to a source who has overseen multiple top-level transfers, that rumour is wide of the mark.

“Zirkzee has not even been discussed at West Ham. They’ve put the feelers out for a few players, but there have been zero conversations about Zirkzee. As usual, it’s just a name thrown up by the media.”

Paquetá Going Nowhere

On the subject of Paquetá, the club were equally firm:

“He’s going nowhere because we don’t want to get relegated.”

Interestingly, there was little said about Kobbie Mainoo, though it’s understood the young midfielder is more likely to move to Serie A if he leaves Manchester United in January.

So, while Fabrizio Romano’s reports have certainly sparked at least muted interest, West Ham insiders insist that — for now — talk of a Paquetá exit or Zirkzee arrival is nothing more than speculation.