West Ham primed for transfer of long-term target following ‘gentleman’s agreement’
West Ham are among the teams interested in Fiorentina centre-back Nikola Milenkovic, with a reported ‘gentleman’s agreement’ making a move likely.
Milenkovic was a target of the Hammers in January. However, it was reported that the centre-back rejected the advances of the east London side.
The Serbian’s contract was ticking down at the time, something that boosted West Ham’s chances of forging a deal. But since then, Milenkovic has signed a new contract with Fiorentina.
The new terms only saw him extend his deal for another year. Sport Witness reported that was likely a ‘gentleman’s agreement’ with Milenkovic’s agent.
As such, it is thought that a reasonably-priced deal may once again be possible for the defender.
That could play into West Ham’s hands. David Moyes’ side have reportedly ‘set their sights’ on Milenkovic, who has been a target of theirs for a decent period.
Inter Milan are also named as a side who are interested in the centre-back. Furthermore, Juventus have also been linked previously thanks to Milenkovic’s compatriot, Dusan Vlahovic, moving to Turin in January.
Of course, the pair were teammates at Fiorentina, and may want to link up again in Turin, though that may be nothing more than rumours.
West Ham price Declan Rice at £150m this summer
Declan Rice will cost £150m if any club wants to sign the midfielder from West Ham
There is also another English club reported to be keen on Milenkovic, though they are not named.
As such, West Ham could face a battle to land the star who will be in high demand this summer.
Milenkovic could stay put
Another possibility is that Milenkovic remains at Fiorentina for a longer period. He looked as if he was going to leave before, yet extended his deal.
As such, it is not out of the realms of possibility that the same will happen again.
The report states that Milenkovic remaining with Fiorentina ‘isn’t completely ruled out’. What’s more, it states it ‘will largely depend on’ what offers come in for him in the coming months.
Given the number of sides that have been interested in the past, it is likely that a few sides will continue their pursuits.
However, it remains to be seen whether or not that is the case.
