EXCLUSIVE: West Ham make U-turn over star’s future after Leeds, Aston Villa make enquiries
West Ham United have rebuffed a number of enquiries for Manuel Lanzini, including from Leeds and Aston Villa, TEAMtalk can reveal.
The 28-year-old looked to have dropped down the pecking order earlier in the season and he was struggling to see regular football. Lanzini was growing agitated with his lack of first-team action and his representatives made contact with teams from around the Premier League and interest in the player was strong.
Newcastle, Aston Villa, Leeds United, Everton and Southampton were amongst those to make it known they would be keen.
In September, West Ham were open to the idea, but now we can confirm that the Hammers are not entertaining a move for Lanzini in the New Year.
David Moyes is looking for additions to his squad and is not keen to seen Lanzini depart. His contract expires in 2023, but West Ham do hold a two-year option to extend the deal.
And despite just three starts in the Premier League this season, we understand Lanzini is more than happy to stay at the London Stadium. Those trio of starts though have arrived in the last three games against Chelsea, Burnley and Arsenal.
The Argentine believes he is good enough to be starting on a regular basis for David Moyes’ side
He is also hoping his form will lift him into World Cup contention for Argentina next December.
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Lanzini U-turn
Respected website Claret and Hugh suggested that as many as four players would be jettisoned in the winter window.
Those in danger of an exit are Andriy Yarmolenko, Lanzini, Darren Randolph and Ryan Fredericks.
The site reported in September: “With Nikola Vlasic, Pablo Fornals and (others) also available as attacking midfielder Manu’s (Lanzini) future now appears to be away from the club.
“The Hammers, however, have received no bidders for the player and will now wait until the winter window to see if there is a chance of moving him on.”
READ MORE: David Moyes has West Ham in pole position for two free-transfer signings
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