When West Ham United confirmed the departures of Vladimir Coufal, Danny Ings, Lukasz Fabianski and Aaron Cresswell a fortnight ago, this felt like the beginning of a summer exodus from the Premier League strugglers.
Coufal, Ings, Fabianski and Cresswell will all leave for free as West Ham shift towards a new-look transfer model.
One based around exciting young talent, the Hammers seemingly taking inspiration from the likes of Brighton, Brentford, Bournemouth and all upwardly-mobile, well-run, profit-turning clubs beginning with the letter ‘B’.
Michail Antonio could be on his way too. Tomas Soucek has held talks with Leeds and Everton. Carlos Soler is returning to PSG, while speculation continues to swirl around Lucas Paqueta and Mohammed Kudus.
As for Guido Rodriguez though, it appears that his own summer exit is not quite as close as some had previously made out.
World Cup-winner Rodriguez was reportedly in talks to re-join River Plate after an underwhelming first season at West Ham United.
However, after the former Real Betis midfielder hinted at another season in London a few days ago, Graham Potter and co may now have a decision to make.
Guido Rodriguez clarifies West Ham United exit rumours
Speaking to Direct TV Sports back in his native Argentina, meanwhile, Rodriguez has now confirmed that reports of an imminent return to his beloved River Plate are wide of the mark.
Talks are yet to take place, at least with the player himself.
“I know [the rumours] came out. There was a lot of talk about it,” he begins. “But the truth is that no one contacted me, nor did I speak to anyone at the club. I really had no contact.
“[But] in every sense, [River Plate] is a top-level club worldwide. One that has grown a lot. I think they can be strong in the Club World Cup. They are tough and complicated matches, but you have to face them first.”
River Plate will face Japanese outfit Urawa Reds, Monterrey of Mexico and Champions League finalists Inter Milan in the Club World Cup group stages. One would presume they would have liked to get Rodriguez through the door before the tournament kicks off in three weeks’ time, but the 31-year-old’s denials cast his future into even greater uncertainty.
World Cup-winner Rodriguez wants to be back in Argentina picture
Guido Rodriguez reportedly told his family he was planning a return to South America. In the meantime, West Ham were allegedly demanding £6 million for a player who arrived in England on a free transfer a year prior.
Now, however, who knows what should really be believed.
Rodriguez has few complaints about his recent absence from the Argentina roster, meanwhile, especially having started only 16 Premier League matches this season. A desire to represent his country again may yet prove to be the biggest driving force in any decision he makes over his future.
“I wasn’t called up for the last few squads,” Rodriguez adds. “But it’s understandable because I haven’t really played much in recent months, especially in a national team with great players.
“To be there, you have to be at the best level possible. But I’m honestly taking it easy and working to get back to that level. It’s something I would like to see.”
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