By Kris Gonzo | Senior West Ham Columnist (Follow on X)
Any late move by Aston Villa to scupper the sale of Crysencio Summerville from West Ham to Roma has been described as “probably too little, too late” by the source who informed Claret & Hugh of the agreement last night.
As we reported yesterday, Roma’s third offer for Summerville was accepted by West Ham, with the player expected to complete the move imminently.
All that remained to be discussed was how the payments would be structured, but it is understood the Hammers have accepted the Serie A club’s offer of £40 million together with what were described as “achievable add-ons”.
No Hold-Up Expected
Speaking to us within the past few minutes, Claret & Hugh asked what the hold-up was with the transfer to Roma and were told:
“None as far as I know. West Ham accepted Roma’s bid last night. It should go through.”
Villa Running Out Of Time
When we asked whether the delay was down to late interest from Aston Villa, we were told:
“Look, it’s football, anything can happen and anyone can come in late. We see it every season. But as things stand, the price for Summerville has been accepted.”
Just as well, really.
West Ham now need to get a wriggle on in the transfer market and start bringing players into the football club.
With the sale of Crysencio Summerville expected to be completed shortly, Nuno Espírito Santo and recruitment director Nils Koppen should finally have the financial flexibility to begin reshaping the squad for the Championship campaign.
So the story of the £40m release clause if all paid up front appears to be that, just a story?