West Ham boss Manuel Pellegrini is keen to get stuck in with his transfer business and it’s reported that approaches for a midfielder have already been made.
Italian outlet TuttoMercatoWeb state Fiorentina have rejected two offers from English sides, said to be West Ham and Aston Villa, for skipper Milan Badelj.
The Croatia international, battling to feature for his nation at the World Cup, has endured a difficult season after inheriting the captain’s armband in Florence following the shock passing of Davide Astori.
Badelj’s future has attracted speculation as proposed contract talks with the Serie A side have been delayed, although it’s stated that the 29-year-old is keen to remain with the Italian club.
His experience, having been capped 36 times by his national side, would provide a strong boost to West Ham’s midfield ranks – an area where the club have struggled this season.
The Hammers remain linked with Inter Milan ace Joao Mario, who spent the second half of the season on-loan at the London Stadium, but the price-tag of the Portugal star may put them off.
