West Ham are ready to trigger Maxi Gomez’s £43.5m release clause, according to The Guardian.
The Hammers had identified Gomez as an ideal replacement for Marko Arnautovic, who had been linked with a move to China.
But even though Arnautovic is set to stay, West Ham are hoping to sign Gomez this week and loan him back to Celta Vigo.
Marko Arnautovic commits to West Ham
This Guardian report claims Chinese Super League club Guangzhou Evergrande tempted Arnautovic with a lucrative move.
But last night, the Austrian committed his future to West Ham by signing a contract extension, whufc.com reports.
However, West Ham still expect Arnautovic to leave next summer and they are ready to accept a £45m bid from China at the end of the season, as per The Guardian.
Maxi Gomez remains a target
With Arnautovic expected to depart in summer 2019, West Ham have lined Gomez up as his replacement. The 22-year-old has a £43.5m release clause, which the Irons are ready to meet to land their man.
West Ham are confident of concluding a deal before the end of the January transfer window. And this would include the Uruguay international heading back to Celta Vigo for the remainder of the season.
Celta Vigo are in danger of getting relegated from La Liga this season. Despite their struggles, Gomez has still struck nine goals and five assists in 18 games.
This followed his tally of 17 goals in 36 games last season, convincing West Ham to sign him.
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