Juventus striker claims he was Bilic’s ‘first choice’

Juvetnus were ready to offload Simone Zaza to West Ham during the transfer window – only for the 24-year-old striker to snub a move to east London!

According to reports coming out of Italy, Zaza opted to stay with Juve because he preferred to fight for his place in Italy at Juventus rather than lead the line for Slaven Bilic’s gladiators, even though he finds himself way down the pecking order at the Italian giants.

The report, published by the website tuttomercatoweb.com, reveals the Hammers and Juventus had agreed an initial loan deal that could have led to a full transfer in the summer of 2016.

It also states Bilic called Zaza and told him: “Come to us, you will front the attack and are my first choice.”

Zaza has found the back of the net 20 times from 64 games for Juventus.

Had the deal been successfully brokered, Juventus would have pocketed a €3 million (£2.2m) season-long loan fee. Meanwhile, Zaza would have earned €1.5m (£1.1m) for his Hammers efforts.

And there was an option to buy at the end of the season for a reputed €15m (£11m).