West Ham United
Premier League • England
West Ham star in line for fairytale return to former club with three integral factors cited
There is speculation that West Ham star Manuel Lanzini could return to former club River Plate, with several factors pointing to the move.
Lanzini has been at West Ham for a good deal of his career. Indeed, he moved from Al Jazira in the Arabian Gulf League in the summer of 2016.
Since then, he has contributed to 54 goals in 191 appearances for the Hammers.
Lanzini struggled for a place in the side last season, making just 17 league outings. However, he has found his way back into the team this term, appearing in 22 league matches and contributing six goals.
However, there has been speculation of a move back to River Plate, where he started his career. Lanzini played 89 times for the Argentinian club, winning the league in 2014.
La Pagina Millonaria, via Sport Witness, claims Lanzini has been fuelling rumours of a return.
The first factor that points to a potential move is Lanzini’s recent meeting with River Plate vice-president Matian Patanian. Secondly, Lanzini has openly admitted he would ‘love a return’ previously.
In addition, a close friend of Lanzini’s, Leandro Gonzalez Pirez, currently plays for the side, and may want to play with the centre-back.
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However, there have been no official talks, and a deal ‘seems quite difficult’.
That being said, Lanzini’s contract is up next summer, so a move might not be too far away.
Barak could join Lanzini in midfield
In other news, West Ham have learned the price they would have to pay for a previous target of theirs, Antonin Barak.
Barak has been in top form in Serie A this season, scoring 10 goals and assisting four.
Any interested side would have to part with £21million for Hellas Verona to allow the move. Given the Hammers were interested in January, they may swoop.
However, there is also reported interest in Barak from Napoli, so a battle for his signature could ensue.
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