West Ham could struggle to sign Celta Vigo striker Maxi Gomez due to work permit issues, according to reports emerging from Spain.
Gomez was West Ham’s top target in the January transfer window when it looked like Marko Arnautovic was heading to China.
According to The Guardian, West Ham even considered triggering Gomez’s £43.5m release clause when Arnautovic decided he was staying.
Manuel Pellegrini is expected to return for Gomez in the summer to address West Ham’s striker situation but Barcelona’s interest could make this harder.
Various media outlets – such as Mundo Deportivo – have reported Barcelona’s interest since January, even though Gomez’s form has dipped since then.
But there is another major stumbling block that has come to light, as noted by reports in the Spanish media.
Maxi Gomez does not have an EU passport
According to Marca, Gomez does not hold an EU passport. This report notes that the Uruguay international’s passport situation could make it difficult for Barcelona, who already have three overseas players in their ranks.
Unless Barca flop Arthur, Arturo Vidal or Malcom, they will not be able to sign Gomez from Celta Vigo. But the Hammers could also struggle to sign the 22-year-old because of the UK’s strict regulations surrounding work permits.
Gomez has only played nine times for Uruguay, meaning he is unlikely to be automatically eligible for a UK work permit. And while West Ham could still argue the striker’s case, it might seem more trouble than it’s worth with other strikers lined up as alternatives.
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