West Ham United’s pursuit of Juventus midfielder Denis Zakaria has hit an initial stumbling block as the Old Lady rejected the Hammers’ opening offer. The 26-year-old, who previously played for Borussia Monchengladbach, has struggled to make a significant impact in Turin, fueling speculations about his summer departure.
Last year, Zakaria sought to revive his career on loan with Chelsea. However, the Swiss international found limited opportunities at Stamford Bridge, making just 11 appearances and scoring a solitary goal. Now, West Ham sees potential in Zakaria and is keen on securing him as a replacement for Declan Rice, who is set to join Arsenal in a record-breaking £105 million transfer.
Sky Sports News reported that West Ham tabled an initial bid of €13 million (£11.2 million), which Juventus promptly turned down, holding out for a more substantial sum, possibly around €20 million (£17.2 million). Although Zakaria still has three years left on his contract with Juventus, his recent performances have not been remarkable, with just one goal and one assist in 15 appearances for the club.
Meanwhile, Newcastle United’s pursuit of promising full-back Valentino Livramento from Southampton has hit a roadblock. The 20-year-old showed great promise after leaving Chelsea in 2021 but was hindered by a devastating ACL injury. Despite a commendable season with one goal and two assists in 28 Premier League appearances, Livramento’s efforts couldn’t prevent Southampton’s relegation.
Newcastle had been in advanced talks to sign Livramento, but negotiations have hit a standstill. The youngster is under contract with Southampton until 2026, and the club is determined to secure a fair deal. Adding complexity to the situation is Chelsea’s rumored buyback clause for Livramento, rumored to be around £40 million. This clause might influence the player’s decision on his future destination.
Southampton, on the other hand, might be willing to part ways with striker Che Adams, who has garnered interest from Fulham and Crystal Palace. Adams struggled to make a significant impact last season, contributing only five goals and three assists in 28 Premier League games as Southampton faced relegation.
Unlike Livramento, Adams’ contract with Southampton expires at the end of next season, making him a potential candidate for a summer transfer before his contract runs out in 2024. Both Fulham and Crystal Palace have expressed their interest, but they might face competition from up to four other Premier League teams.
For Bournemouth, their sights are set on Bristol City’s 19-year-old prodigy, Alex Scott. The young midfielder impressed last season, earning the accolade of Championship’s Young Player of the Season, with one goal and five assists in 42 appearances, landing a spot in the Team of the Season.
Bournemouth’s initial bid of £15 million was turned down by Bristol City, who are now bracing themselves for an improved offer from the Premier League club. Scott’s versatility in midfield has also caught the attention of Wolverhampton Wanderers, West Ham, and Inter Milan, adding further intrigue to his potential transfer.
Bristol City’s head coach, Nigel Pearson, believes Scott is worth at least £25 million, but with his current contract expiring in 2025, it remains to be seen how the situation unfolds. The young English talent has already represented England’s Under-20 team on nine occasions, indicating his potential for future success.
These transfer sagas are set to unfold in the coming weeks, as clubs and players alike weigh their options ahead of the Euro 2024, where potential moves could impact players’ international aspirations. While some clubs aim to secure talents for the future, others are eyeing replacements for departing stars, setting the stage for a thrilling summer transfer window.