If the reports are believed to be accurate, West Ham United have wanted Gonzalo Montiel for quite some time, and his agent has now confirmed the same while speaking exclusively to Radio Futbol 910 (as relayed by El Intransigente).
It has been a difficult season for the Hammers who are fighting for survival and have only managed to stay out of the drop zone on goal difference so far over Watford and Bournemouth. There’s a lot at stake for them to maintain top-flight status and the club, therefore, are already in the market to bolster the squad for the upcoming term.
Montiel, 23, progressed through the youth ranks of River Plate before breaking into their senior side a few years ago. He has also represented Argentina on a couple of occasions and is rated highly back in the homeland for balancing his game between attack and defence while operating as a right fullback.
Although he has a €20m release clause in his contract, the ongoing financial crisis in the wake of global health concerns might see the Irons roping him in a cut-price deal.
“They wanted to make a high loan with a £10m option. River said no because they were fighting for things. It was talked about when West Ham arrived. Now there is no soccer in Argentina, and if an offer comes, you have to listen to it. Today, eight million is a good offer.”
The above was revealed by Marcelo Carracedo, the player’s agent, as quoted by El Intransigente.
Why West Ham United Want Montiel More Than Ever
A summer exit has now been confirmed by Pablo Zabaleta himself while speaking to the Argentinian radio station Radio Continental. Ryan Fredericks never managed to settle in Stratford with persistent injury problems and is now facing uncertainties over his future as claimed by Football.London. Meanwhile, the Hammers have been dealt a blow in their attempt to retain the services of 19-year-old Jeremy Ngakia who has reportedly rejected a new deal to ply his trade elsewhere during the summer window.
The crisis is real in that particular slot of the pitch and West Ham United thus want Montiel to resolve the conundrum by accepting a move to East London. He has not only registered two assists in 19 league outings for the Argentine hotshots but also recorded two tackles, 1.2 interceptions and 1.3 clearances per game (stats via Whoscored) to exhibit his all-round ability while operating as a right-back.
Having said that, David Moyes must avoid a relegation scare to lure in the Albiceleste professional, and a demotion would only complicate things further in their battle to reinstate lost status.
