Mauro Zarate – rated at around £5 million by West Ham now looks certain to go in the European shop window next month.
Rumour and counter rumour has been flying around the Argentinian’s head since he denied stories that he was unhappy with life earlier in the season.
However, there seems little doubt now that those who predicted following his arrival from South America in the summer that “it wouldn’t work ” were correct and the club is seriously looking at interest from Europe.
Torino are known to be interested along with other Serie A clubs plus a couple in Spain.
A source told us: “Despite the African Nations Cup and the likely departure of Diafra Sakho the club may well decide to let Mauro take the chance of a loan.
“He wants to play. Simple and if the right offer comes along we may well decidee that’s the way forward.”