Joe Hart believes his long-term future lies away from the Etihad and it is understood that he has got assurances that his sale will not be blocked in any manner if the requirements are met. Pep Guardiola dropped one of the first major shocks when he put Joe Hart up for sale after deciding over the summer that the City legend did not fit in his plans anymore.
The keeper is currently on loan at Torino but has retained his place in the England national team as their preferred first choice option. However, he has admitted that the move to the Italian club was just a temporary solution and hopes to find a new permanent destination at the end of the season.
Let us look at some of the clubs who might be interested in his signature.
West Ham United
The Hammers have had a difficult season till now and amongst a lot of negatives, one of the more pressing issues has been their goalkeeping this season. Adrian has failed to carry on his good form from last season and has subsequently been dropped by Slaven Bilic. Randolph has taken his place and while his initial impact was encouraging, there is a clear need to upgrade in that area. But West Ham’s interest comes with a caveat that they will have to avoid relegation this season to make a move for the England No.1 which seems quite possible now.
Everton
Everton showed late interest in the summer for the first-choice English keeper but the move did not materialise as he opted for a move to Torino. But new Everton manager Ronald Koeman is a keen admirer of the Englishman and given the uncertain nature of Stekelenburg’s displays this season, there is plenty of scope for improvement in that particular department for the Toffees. Hart will come with an abundance of experience in the Premier League and will add much-needed leadership qualities at the back. Everton should not have trouble coughing up the fee and the wages with the new owner sanctioning sufficient money for transfers.
Torino
Hart has the option of extending his stay in Italy after the initial 1-year loan. It has been so far so good for the club and if their partnership blossoms over the remainder of the season, there is a possibility the club will go all out in order to tie him down to a longer deal. But as of now, it seems unlikely with several other clubs reportedly interested in him. But as long as he is in Italy, there will always be a slight chance that Torino can manage to retain him.
