West Ham United‘s efforts to bolster their midfield have hit a roadblock as Celtic star Matt O’Riley reportedly prioritises a move to Serie A over a potential transfer to the Premier League club, according to HITC.
Atalanta, tabled an initial offer for the Danish midfielder, which Celtic rejected . Negotiations for an improved bid are reportedly underway
Despite previous discussions with West Ham, O’Riley seemingly has his heart set on a move to Italy, with Serie A holding more appeal than the Premier League.
West Ham has been active in the transfer window, securing attacking talent in Luis Guilherme and defensive reinforcements in Max Kilman and Wes Foderingham.
However, the midfield remains a cause for concern. While Flynn Downes has returned following his loan spell at Southampton, a potential loan exit with a player-plus-cash deal is being discussed between the two clubs .
O’Riley’s impressive attacking contributions (19 goals and 18 assists last season) suggest he could have significantly bolstered West Ham’s midfield alongside established players like Tomas Soucek, James Ward-Prowse, and Edson Alvarez.
West Ham’s lack of European football this season appears to be a key factor in O’Riley’s decision. Atalanta’s European adventure might hold more allure than playing in the Premier League.
With the season fast approaching, West Ham needs to explore alternative options to address their midfield needs. Julen Lopetegui’s failed attempt to sign Aleix Garcia is indication of genuine intent from the club to purchase a midfielder.
Their search for reinforcements continues.
I just wanna see a decent forward in the bag
Centre Midfield is one of the areas that West Ham have some depth.
Soucek, JWP, Alvarez, plus Paquetta
AND
Earthy, Potts, Downes and any other Academy products ready to make the step up.
Agreed
Is our midfield really ‘a cause for concern’? Don’t see it myself. Different matter if Soucek or Downes leave. Or IF Paqueta is found guilty.
…Or if ‘El Machin’ Alvarez is out for a couple of months….
Thought I’d read he was back in light training? Obviously could suffer a setback. But either way, I don’t see the Celtic lad as a replacement for Alvarez. I think we’re fairly well covered in centre midfield.