West Ham United legend Trevor Sinclair is worried Michail Antonio could be sold before the transfer deadline next week.
West Ham have made four signings this summer.
Two of those have been goalkeepers Roberto and David Martin, both on free transfers.
The other two cost a combined £69million with West Ham bringing in the exciting Pablo Fornals and striker Sebastien Haller.
West Ham squad looking short
Nine have departed, though, and West Ham fans feel the squad is short.
Some even argue it is currently weaker than last season.
A second striker is needed as is a defensive midfielder. In an ideal world another fullback too.
Speculation had suggested the well has run dry at West Ham (Claret & Hugh).
Manuel Pellegrini was handed a £30m base budget this summer plus any money made from sales.
Reports claim Pellegrini must sell to buy
The Chilean’s net spend is just £25million as things stand.
Supporters feel other sales may be likely to generate funds, particularly for a second striker.
And Hammers legend Trevor Sinclair fears the club could offload Michail Antonio.
Speaking on Twitter after seeing Antonio named on the bench for West Ham’s 5-3 win over Hertha Berlin, Sinclair suggested his future could be in the balance.
Sinclair fears Antonio sale
“Either Antonio’s not fully fit or he’s down the pecking order?” Sinclair said on Twitter.
“Big loss if he’s sold ….. thoughts?”
It comes after Antonio was once again linked with a move to Crystal Palace this week.
The Daily Mirror reported (on page 69 of its Sunday, 28 July edition) that Palace tried to sign Antonio a year ago and claims ‘there is now a feeling’ that the Eagles can convince West Ham to sell.
That feeling may well come from West Ham’s need to sell before they buy if reports on Pellegrini’s budget are accurate.
Antonio is a firm favourite with fans for his work ethic and never-say-die attitude.
He also boasts great power and pace and chips in with his fair share of goals.
But with a plethora of midfield talent at his disposal, Pellegrini may have to sacrifice someone to solve the problem positions in his squad.
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