Marko’s Chinese deal is off – time to heal
The radio station who first broke the story through their new head of the radio station Lee Clayton is now conceding the deal is dead in the water. Arnautovic was left out of the squad yesterday with Pellegrini saying the 29-year-old “has his head on another issue”.
Talksport said this morning “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.”
Marko’s brother Danijel briefed TalkSport throughout the Chinese interest in Arnautovic and it was through the radio station he later released his statement through claiming Marko wanted to win trophies in China.
Talksport says “Pellegrini now faces the difficult task of trying to reintegrate Arnautovic into his squad, although he is understood to be relaxed about the situation and retains a good relationship with the former Stoke man.”
Claret and Hugh understand that the Chinese club in question were never prepared to budge beyond their £35m offer which would cost them £70m after tax and West Ham made it clear their striker was not for sale at that price. The Hammers would have netted around £30m after giving Stoke £3m in a sell on clause and another £1.75m in a solidarity payment. West Ham believed that could not replace their top goal scorer in this winter for £30m and Pellegrini refused to sanction any move.
The big test now is whether there is a way back for Marko Arnautoivic with the manager, players and the fans?