Ex Hammers star Don Hutchison has made a claim about a buyout clause involving striker Duvan Zapata that will infuriate West Ham fans.
As West Ham fans fume over the club’s lack of activity in the January window, former midfielder turned pundit Hutchison may have just fanned the flames.
David Moyes made it clear he was looking to bring a new striker to West Ham after two years of trying without success.
West Ham were linked with a host of forwards but ultimately when the clock struck 11pm on deadline day Moyes had not been able to bring one in.
After reportedly trying and failing to bring in Benfica’s Darwin Nunez, the Hammers allegedly held talks to sign Atalanta striker Duvan Zapata – once a target of Sam Allardyce during his time at West Ham – on loan on transfer deadline day.
That’s according to a report from Sky Sports who claim West Ham submitted a deal sheet to the Premier League but failed to get the transfer over the line for the Colombia international.
Don Hutchison makes Duvan Zapata buyout clause claim that will infuriate West Ham fans
Now former two-time Hammer Hutchison has made a Zapata buyout clause claim that will infuriate West Ham fans.
Speaking on Twitter, Hutchison – who watches a lot of Serie A football in his role as a European football co-commentator and pundit – claims Zapata has a buyout clause in his contract of less than £6m!
“Premier League clubs have missed a massive chance to sign Duvan Zapata from Atalanta,” Hutchison said.
“I believe his buyout clause was £5.5million.
“I’ve never really seen him have too many bad games.
“He bullies defenders, (is) quick, brave, scores goals, (gets) assists etc.”
It was put to Hutchison by a West Ham fan that his club was one that particularly needed a striker. And Hutch said Zapata would have been ‘perfect’ for his old club.
“Would have been perfect eh,” Hutchison added.
If Hutchison’s claim is correct then why West Ham felt they had to try a loan bid is simply beyond comprehension.
Why would Atalanta let one of their key players leave on loan at the last minute?
The mind really does boggle.