Fabrizio Romano has dealt something of a knockout blow to West Ham’s transfer hopes with his latest update.
Late last night, the football transfer ITK revealed the news many Hammers fans were half expecting when he gave an update on the future of Jacob Ramsey.
The Aston Villa midfielder had been frequently referred to as Graham Potter’s top target, but now it appears he’ll be heading to the North East and Newcastle.
Despite nearly three weeks of talks and West Ham having the ear of his agent Will Salthouse, it seems Ramsey only has eyes for Newcastle.
Speaking on his X account, Romano said:
“Understand Newcastle are closing in on Jacob Ramsey deal with Aston Villa!
Agreement almost done for £40m package as clubs are finalising the deal and then… here we go. ⚪️⚫️🔜
Despite West Ham approach, Ramsey only wants Newcastle as #NUFC move is now imminent.”
Realistically, once Eddie Howe’s Magpies entered the bidding, we never really stood a chance given the gulf between the two clubs at present.
Ramsey was wanted by West Ham boss Potter but now Newcastle look set to land him
The Hammers must now focus all efforts on landing Southampton’s Mateus Fernandes, for whom the club bid £30m yesterday. Sealing the signing of the Saints youngster would provide an instant antidote to missing out on Ramsey — but Irons bosses will need to move quickly, with the beginning of the season only four days away.
He wasn’t the answer needs CM with pace and vision
Got a midfield full of strollers
I believe JWP ran the most of any player last season, and can pass the ball. He needs encouragement and backing to turn and look forward, but can still be an asset for us given the right players around him who can make themselves available to him to pass to.
Our slow, stagnant midfield is due to the combination of Soucek, Rodriguez and JWP playing together. With a more energetic fellow No. 8, and with Paqueta dropping back into a 6 (where he’s played effectively for Brazil and can control the game), I think he’s do well.
As for Ramsay – who cares? If a player doesn’t want to come, say “thanks for the chat” and move on to players who do. It’s not rocket science, so let’s not mention him again, eh?
Why must West Ham rush with the season only four days away? There are still seventeen days left in the transfer window. Years ago players were put straight into the side. That’s rare these days. Even if we sign someone today they’ll be unlikely to be in starting side at the weekend.
Our reactions and actions are to slow The player publically stated 3 weeks ago he wont be coming Now we are left short Not good enough W Ham
Good he is not right for us, might be successful for Newcastle who play more vertically would like us to sign a box to box cdm like Rice that can ping a pass, can’t believe JWP has been made vice captain unless there are a few of them although he is great with all the press duties off field it’s his press duties on field that need help.