West Ham face new threat in bid to sign Manchester City outcast Nicolas Otamendi

West Ham United have been linked with a move for Argentina international Nicolas Otamendi.

Manuel Pellegrini is looking to sign two strikers, two midfielders, a back-up goalkeeper and a defender this summer.

Respected Spanish outlet Marca claims West Ham are keen on the Manchester City outcast.

Photo by Tom Flathers Man City via Getty Images

West Ham have found a decent partnership in Fabian Balbuena and Issa Diop.

But Pellegrini only realistically has Angelo Ogbonna in reserve with Declan Rice so crucial to the team in midfield.

Otamendi has barely played for champions City this season, featuring just 15 times in the Premier League.

Pellegrini signed Otamendi for City in 2015 for £28.5million.

At the age of 31 he will likely cost around a third of that if the Hammers do want to push through a deal.

But Pellegrini’s reunion faces a new threat from Otamendi’s fellow Argentine Diego Simeone at Atletico Madrid (Diario AS).

Simeone is overhauling his defence with Juanfran, Diego Godin and Felipe Luis all leaving the club.

Photo by Tom Flathers Man City via Getty Images

If Otamendi wants to remain in the Premier League, moving to London could prove attractive.

The Hammers also have the ace card of Pellegrini having worked with the player before.

On the flip side the lure of Champions League football, a return to Spain and working with his compatriot may just swing it in Atletico’s favour.