Serie A side threaten West Ham in battle for defensive target

Torino could pose a threat to West Ham’s hopes of signing defender Frederik Alves Ibsen from Silkeborg, according to a report.

Alves was thought to be on the verge of a move to West Ham ahead of the January transfer window. The defender was spotted in London with his agent, expected to undergo a medical.

The move seemed even more of a formality when Silkeborg officially announced that they had agreed a deal to sell Alves in January. However, they did not name the buying club.

Many thought it would turn out to be West Ham. There were reports of a fee in the region of £1m being agreed and a contract until 2024.

However, a Silkeborg director admitted that the move depended on Alves gaining a work permit for the country he was moving to. By referring to Brexit, he suggested the involvement of an English club – most likely West Ham.


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But according to Calciomercato, the saga may not be over just yet.

The website claims that Serie A outfit Torino have entered the race for Alves. They are ready to make a challenge for his signature.

West Ham have not announced any deal to sign Alves, suggesting they still haven’t finalised the transfer. Therefore, Torino could be looking to swoop in.

 

Another threat to West Ham bid

It would not be the first time West Ham’s attempts to sign Alves were disrupted. Reports last month claimed that Leeds would try to hijack their bid.

While the 20-year-old is not quite ready to be a Premier League regular, several clubs are aware of his potential. Therefore, he could join up with an Under-23 squad of an English team.

West Ham seemed confident of winning the race, but now may face a battle from Italy.

Alves is already closing in on 50 senior appearances for Silkeborg, after making his debut in September 2018. He has started eight games in the Danish top flight this season.

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