Reports coming out of Spain claim that West Ham United are pursuing a deal for Espanyol goalkeeper, Roberto Jimenez Gago. The 32-year-old has been placed on the market for sale as Manuel Pellegrini looks to make a goalkeeping addition ahead of the 2018/19 season.
Joe Hart has already left the side after the completion of his loan spell and Adrian was understood to be looking towards an exit as well. However, with Pellegrini taking charge at the London Stadium, the latter has changed his mind and is currently expecting a brand new contract from the Hammers.
When asked about his situation, Adrian said, “I’m waiting to hear Pellegrini’s ideas, and from there will make a decision. Both options are there but the first thing to do is to sit down with the club and see the situation.”
Should he also quit the side, the Chilean boss will find himself without an established number one. Roberto Jimenez is experienced in the field and will be available for only €2m. Mario Husillos, who has joined Pellegrino at East London as the club’s sporting director, has previously worked with the shot-stopper at Malaga and is well accustomed to his abilities.
Gago had spent the second half of the previous season out on loan with the White and Sky Blues after making just 6 appearances for Espanyol since his switch in 2016. He appeared in 34 games for Malaga and racked up 6 clean sheets to impress Husillos and other European outfits, despite failing to avoid relegation.
The 32-year-old is a product of the Atletico Madrid youth academy but never really could break into the first team. He has been all over Europe while playing for teams like Benfica, Olympiacos and then Real Zaragoza.
Gago has led a vagabond-like existence throughout his professional career, never settling at one side for long but never got to experience Premier League football either. Now with heaps of top-flight experience, the Spaniard can make his way over to the British capital to play under a highly decorated manager.
He will also be promised an important role with United, with not many names to compete for his place. West Ham are looking to make significant changes to their current lineup with players like Issa Diop and Felipe Anderson close to making their way over to the side.
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This speaks volumes of the club’s future ambitions and Gago could hope to be part of that transitional journey.
