Irons may face five more weeks of Arnie worries

The brothers Arnautovic

West Ham re bracing themselves for ongoing issues in Danjiel Arnautovic’s bid to get his brother a move to  China.

Although Talksport – headed by the man who broke the story – Lee Clayton – claim the deal is now dead, the Hammers know that with the Chinese transfer window not closing until the end of February things may not be at an end.

And if Danijel’s past record is  any guide the Hammers know they could be facing a troublesome five weeks despite news the deal cannot be resurrected.

TalkSport – believed to have been briefed throughout by the brother/agent – said: “Arnautovic now looks set to stay at the London Stadium after the club in China decided to drop their interest having initially indicated they were prepared to offer around £45million to secure his signature.”

They added that Pellegrini is relaxed about reintegrating Marko into the squad but the Hammers still believe there may be more problems on the way from Danijel.

They are unsure what he may be ready to do but would be surprised if it is merely a case now of settling Arnie back into the squad with the Chinese window remaining open.

The agent/brother had stirred the pot when linking him with a move ahead of the window before announcing the Chinese interest.

Meanwhile, the Irons are ready for any new developments and will take a very hard line unless any deal reaches €50 million or beyond as they bid to ensure there are no repeats of the Payet affair.