West Ham have received a big boost as Fabrizio Romano casts doubt on a Leeds deal for David Moyes target Azzedine Ounahi after signing a Frenchman.
West Ham are said to be keen on signing Morocco World Cup star Ounahi.
But it has been Leeds United who have showed the most serious intent to beat the Hammers to Nayef Aguerd’s international teammate.
According to a report from 90Min, West Ham want to sign Ounahi from Angers with his transfer ‘inevitable’ this month (L’Équipe).
As reported on Hammers News last week, the midfield ace has changed agents to help facilitate that and Leeds have lodged an official bid for the 22-year-old.
Given their precarious positions in the Premier League, any advantage West Ham or Leeds can gain with new arrivals could prove decisive.
Leeds have brought in Max Wober for around £11m and yesterday completed the signing of forward Georginio Rutter for a club record £36m (BBC Sport).
But it seems that spending might come at a cost for Leeds.
There is a big West Ham boost as Romano casts doubt on a Leeds deal for Moyes target Ounahi after signing Frenchman Rutter.
The Italian transfer reporter claims that a Leeds deal is not dead but suggests other clubs are now moving in with the Whites taking a breath in the window following their outlay.
“Azzedine Ounahi deal, Leeds have to decide how to proceed with signings after spending big money on Rutter,” Romano said on Twitter.
“Deal not dead but other clubs also moving.
“Next week expected to be key — as Napoli have offered €15m (£13m) to Angers one week ago.”
Ounahi is exactly the type of player West Ham need. Lucas Paqueta is being completely mis-used by Moyes and needs to play higher up to service West Ham’s forwards.
Leeds have showed serious intent this window and West Ham must pounce if there are now doubts over Jesse Marsch’s ability to get a deal done for the Moroccan.
There is no time to waste with West Ham facing a huge six-pointer against Everton up next in the battle to avoid a disastrous relegation.
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