No happy returns for midfielder

(Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

Speculation that Joao Mario could find himself back at the club on a permanent basis next season is totally inaccurate.

The reports came out of Europe recently and then found their way into social media but there is no chance of the midfielder leaving Inter Milan for the London Stadium.

And the player himself admitted he had enjoyed his time at the club and we should wait and see what happens over the next few weeks.

But having watched him carefully last season the club were and were not overly impressed given that the Italians asking price of £26 million for the player.

We understand the new manager Manuel Pellegrini has other targets – at this moment being kept a closely guarded secret.- and that Mario is now very much part of the Hammers past for now.