Henry's ready to make up for lost time
WHUFC.com
Doneil Henry is itching to make up for lost time after recovering from the hamstring injury which ended his 2014/15 campaign early. The Canadian international, who joined the Hammers in the January transfer window, suffered the injury in just his third game of a loan spell in the Sky Bet Championship with Blackburn Rovers. That meant surgery and a lengthy road to recovery, but the 22-year-old is now working his way back to fitness and ready to contribute for the Hammers under new boss Slaven Bilic. He said: "I'm looking ahead to brighter days now. I'm getting fit and my body feels a lot better than it did at this time last year. "I'm ready to get started and look for positivity within the group, and try to impress the manager.
"It's important for us, especially the younger players who might not be in the team right away, to stay positive and optimistic that when the chance comes they can make the most of the opportunity."
West Ham's season gets underway in a week's time when they host FC Lusitans in the UEFA Europa League first qualifying round, with tickets available for just £10 adults and £5 under-16s.
The former Toronto FC defender is targeting that competition as an opportunity to make his mark with West Ham. He added: "The most important thing right now is taking the matches as they come. Obviously I need to monitor the injury and I just want to do what I can to prevent in from happening again in the future. That means doing the right things, getting in the gym and doing my recovery. "Right now I want to focus on getting ready for the upcoming matches and ensuring that I'm ready to go whenever I get my chance to play."
Henry is currently with a group of players on a pre-season training camp in Ireland and he says that is the perfect way to prepare for this year's early start. He explained: "We're here to get together as a team, get the fitness back and do the dirty stuff to dig deep and win matches when the season gets underway. "Especially with the European competition this season, there will be a lot of games so everybody needs to get their fitness in and maintain it throughout the season. It's going to be a long season and we're going to need the full squad. "By the end of this camp I should be a lot sharper, so right now I'm taking it day-by-day. Hopefully nothing flares up and I can have a successful pre-season."
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Marseille blast West Ham in 'tapping up' row
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 25th June 2015
By: Staff Writer
Marseille have accused West Ham United of 'tapping up' Dimitri Payet, claiming sensationally that their player had not been given permission to speak with the club. In an extraordinary statement released on the club's website this morning, L'OM insist that they had no intention of selling the player - until he demanded an immediate salaray increase, following interest from West Ham.
Interest, say Marseille, that was entirely unwelcome - and talks that the Ligue 1 club claim they not given West Ham permission to enter. "In early June, an agreement was made with Dimitri and his agent," read the L'OM statement. "Both sides agreed that the playmaker will honour the last two years of his contract. "On 22 June, Dimitri's agent requested a meeting with President Vincent Labrune. During the meeting he announced that he and his player had opened negotiations with West Ham, saying that the English club had offered a six-year contract worth €30 million. "The agent demanded a huge and immediate revaluation of Dimitri Payet's contract to remain at Marseille. Unable to meet this demand, Olympique de Marseille - through the voice of its president - expressed his surprise that negotiations were opened with another club without OM being warned. "The club then agreed to Payet's agent's demands, explaining that we agreed to revise reasonably conditions - but only in mid-July, after having respected its commitments to the DNCG [the Direction Nationale du Contrôle de Gestion, a French football organisation that maintains professional football club accounts]. "The player's agent refused this timeline and asked Vincent Labrune for a quicker resolution, saying that otherwise the English track is preferred. Surprised by this ultimatum, the Marseille president decided to respond favourably to the English bid, after half a day of reflection. The player has been asked to face his responsibilities: to stay in a club he says he loves and wait until mid-July for a discussion with the president, to review contractual conditions for OM - or choose the golden bridge that offers to West Ham. OM obviously wants Dimitri choose to stay in Marseille next season."
Payet flew into London overnight in order to seal his move to West Ham. He will hold further talks with club officials today. West Ham are yet to respond to Marseille's charges.
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Kuzmanovic & Destro rumours rubbished
Posted by Sean Whetstone on June 25, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
The club's in house 'In The Know' insider has rubbished claims that West Ham are interested in Inter Milan midfielder Zdravko Kuzmanovic or Roma striker Mattia Destro touted by the media in recent days.
Speaking on his regular Boleyn Insider column the mystery ITK says:
"West Ham have also been linked with a move for Inter Milan midfielder Zdravko Kuzmanovic who has also attracted interest from other Premier League clubs.But my sources have told me that the east London club were never in the market to sign the Serbia international."
"There have also been reports linking Roma striker Mattia Destro with a move to the Boleyn Ground but I believe that is just speculation and the Club will continue to work hard in their attempts to strengthen the squad"
The insider does confirm the club are now confident of finalising a deal in the next 72 hours and that it will be the first eight figure signing of the summer which we all know is Dimitri Payet.
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Hammers linked with two France internationals
Posted by Sean Whetstone on June 25, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
According to French paper L'Equipe, the Hammers are confident they can conclude deals Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Yohan Cabaye and Chelsea forward Loic Remy this summer.
Chelsea have reportedly valued Remy at £15million who is hoping to find regular first-team football elsewhere next season while former Newcastle player Cabaye has also made no secret of his desire to leave PSG, having made just 13 Ligue 1 starts last season.
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Stats that show Dimitri Payet could be exactly what West Ham need
11:55 25 June 2015
With Marseille accepting an offer of £10.7 million for winger Dimitri Payet and the 28-year-old set to double his wages at West Ham, Opta-powered fantasy football game www.oulala.com have taken a detailed look at what kind of player the Hammers will be getting for their money. The Frenchman's game primarily revolves around technical ability, creativity and passing. Last season Payet led Ligue 1 comfortably for assists with 17, five more than his nearest challenger, Paris Saint-Germain's Javier Pastore. Payet also led the French league for key passes, 40 more than any other player in Ligue 1. An impressive 117 in total at a rate of 3.25 per game. The 134 chances that the 28-year-old created last season saw him set up a team mate every 23 minutes. The French international enjoyed an 80 percent pass accuracy and also weighed in with a healthy 7 league goals for Marseille. Payet also attempted more shots from outside the area than any other Ligue 1 midfielder last term with 58 in total, compared to just 17 shots from inside the box. The stats suggest that the Hammers have landed themselves a star in the form of Dimitri Payet, and as the club's second signing of the summer already, new boss Slaven Bilic's new look West Ham is slowing beginning to form.
LONDON24
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Transfers: West Ham agree Dimitri Payet fee and target Loic Remy and Yohan Cabaye
11:52, 25 JUNE 2015
BY JON MASSEY
Upton Park could have a much more Gallic feel if multi-million pound deals go through
the wharf
Marseille striker Dimitri Payet looks even more likely to be turning out in a West Ham jersey when the season starts in July. The Irons have agreed a fee of £10.7million for the 28-year-old forward who flew to London for a medical at Upton Park on Thursday, June 24. The club is thought to have offered him a deal worth £60,000 a week with a £10,000 appearance bonus.
Payet, who made the most assists in Ligue 1 last season had two years left on his contract at his French club but was facing a wage drop of around £12,000 after Marseille's Champions League qualification failure. A seasoned international, the striker has 15 French caps. And his arrival could be the tip of a Gallic iceberg if the rumours are to be believed. Reports from France suggest it's likely to be a busy summer for West Ham's new manager Slaven Bilic who ois apparently confident of securing the services of two more French internationals. L'Equipe says Chelsea's forward Loic Remy (who's likely to cost £15million) and Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Yohan Cabaye who's also a target for Arsenal.
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River Plate linked with Zarate loan offer
Posted by Sean Whetstone on June 24, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Reports in Argentina suggest Argentian club River Plate will attempt a loan deal for fellow countryman Mauro Zarate. The reports claim there was a meeting between the club and Zarate's representative to explore a loan deal for 6 months. Zarate managed just 71 minutes on the pitch for relegated QPR after his January arrival on loan last season. He made just four second half substitutions for the Hoops against Burnley, Southampton, Sunderland and Hull, three of which resulted in losses. Zarate was also fined two weeks' wages worth £80,000 for throwing a tantrum before QPR's defeat against Liverpool. Zarate was recently quoted saying "It is an exciting time for the club and I want to be part of that. I know the new manager had a good relationship with his players at Besiktas and I want to work hard to become a part of his plans. West Ham is still a club that I love. I have been training hard and I am looking forward to showing that I can still be an important player for them."
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Here's the top Irons summer signing of all time
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 25, 2015 in News, Shep's Blogs, Whispers
C AND H
Rob Sheperd
There is a positive buzz around West Ham right now. New manager Slaven Bilic has started work, a new retro style kit is selling like hot cakes as fans prepare to say a long Goodbye to the Boleyn Ground, there is the added spice of European football and the club is working hard to sign new players to improve the squad. Since the two transfer window was brought in 13 years ago the summer session especially has increasingly become a soap opera with the drama often going up to the 11th hour with so many clubs , players and a myriad of agents indulging in Mexican Stand offs.
Last summer the club having brought in a new recruitment system with co owner David Sullivan very much hands on did some good business. Aaron Creswell, Enner Valencia, Diafra Sakho were all impressive and good value permanent signings. Some of the players West Ham are currently chasing excite and that had me pondering: Who was our best ever summer signing ?
I refrained from trawling through reference books or surfing the web and stuck with my instincts. I didn't take long to come up with and answer : Frank McAvennie.
When John Lyall paid St. Mirren £340,000 for McAvennie in the summer of 1985 it was largely a case of a Frank Who ? By the end of the season the chorus of "One McAvennie, there's only one McAvennie" was the favourite song around Upton Park. McAvennie had not only become a cult figure for Hammers fans either, he had become a national celebrity, a forerunner of todays "Hollywood" football stars as he inspired West Ham to finish in their highest ever league position of third and be featured on the celeb pages not just back pages of the tabloid press.
It had all started rather low key. Lyall had planned to play McAvennie at the tip of a midfield diamond ( yes that system is not a recent invention) behind Tony Cottee and Paul Goddard but Goddard got injured in dull 1-0 opening day defeat at Birmingham.
Next game up was at home to QPR in the midweek a match I was covering. Lyall said ahead of the game that McAvennie would take Goddard's place. In those days the entrance for the press corps was at the main reception where the players went in too. I arrived pretty early and bumped into lean looking guy, wearing a light suit ( the leather trousers would come later) and shock of very blond hair and bright white shiny teeth. "Are you McAvennie I asked," not having seen him before as there had been little publicity about his arrival. "Aye, I'm Frank" came his answer in a thick Glaswegian accent. "Welcome to West Ham," I said as I shook his hand . "One word of advice mate, get some goals sure but whatever you do make sure you run your bollocks off and the fans here will love you here"
McAvennie gave me a broad grin and made his way towards the dressing room. A few hours later me and a huddle of press chaps would be waiting down in the reception area for McAvennie to emerge from his after match stint in the players bar and coral him for a snap interview after his stunning home debut in a 3-1 win over Rangers. Not only had he scored twice he has run his nuts off too. He offered some sharp, witty typically Glaswegian one liners …great copy for the next days back pages then the day after follow ups. Clearly he was a character and it wasn't long before he was embraced by some other London clubs ; Stringellows and Browns for instance in the West End or the Apollo Phoenix restaurant in Stratford. Any West Ham fan knows what happened next as McAvennie and Tony Cottee formed a 46 league goal partnership and the team went on an incredible run a fixture log jam in the final few weeks arguably costing the team an elusive league title eventually won by Liverpool with Everton second,
While it was Cottee ( 20 league goals ) who was awarded Hammer of the Year it was McAvennie ( 26 ) who was the catalyst for that special season. It must be said another low key summer signing in '85, Mark Ward from Oldham, played a big part too. It was McAvennie who grabbed the bulk of attention though . He blew bubbles on the pitch and enjoyed quaffing some bubbles off it often surrounded by Page Three girls. Indeed he was putting his fellow Scot Charlie Nicholas at Arsenal in the shade in the playboy stakes, so much that he ended appearing on the Terry Wogan show so a wider public could know about this new "SuperMac" given that there had been a TV blackout in the first half of the season.
It was like West Ham had their own George Best at last .But for all the celebrity stuff he kept delivering on the pitch that season and made Scotland's 1986 World Cup squad too. No doubt you have you own views and favourites. Obviously Paolo di Canio was a wonderful signing, so too were Paul Kitson and John Hartson when they saved the side from relegation. But these were mid season before the windows came into force.
As for top summer signings > Well there have been plenty down the years, like Phil Parkes , Clyde Best or John "Budgie" Byrne. I am sure I have missed plenty and Claret and Hugh would love to hear who your top summer signing down the years is. And it is to be hoped there are few to be made soon who come the end of the season could be mentioned in dispatches. But they will have to go along way to rival McAvennie. Sadly on the opening day of the following season Frank was crocked by a horror tackle by Chris Kamara which broke his leg. He recovered but his time at West Ham was no longer as electric especially when boyhood heroes Celtic circled and he moved back to Glasgow. But for me if I have to single out West Ham's best summer signing there is ONE that stands out head and shoulders above the rest : "One McAvennie."
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Obiang The Dancing Bear
Just Like My Dreams
It was on a derelict scrub of land in the middle of a housing estate that the young Pedro Mba Obiang Avomo first caught the eye. "He was fourteen years of age and playing in the Alcalá de Henares youth team, his local amateur side in a town about 30 kilometers from Madrid," remembers noted Fifa agent Giovanni Fiore. Scouting for Sampdoria at the time, Fiore sent word back to his Genovese paymasters that he had witnessed a 'dancing bear'; that rare combination of imposing physicality and mesmeric technical skill. "Even at that age he was head and shoulders above all his companions," says Fiore. "He had a great ease of movement and it seemed that he could do the more complicated things without much effort. Then there was his personality. He was already the undisputed reference point of the entire team; a leader his team-mates would always seek out in open play, at free kicks and with corners." As yet blissfully unaware of the burgeoning interest being shown, Obiang- known more familiarly by his nickname Perico (a type of parrot)- has a slightly different recollection of those formative years. "I have strong memories of my early days," he says. "From about the age of twelve I was continually overlooked by the big teams; there were a lot of doors slammed on me." It would be a further two years after Fiore's initial report before the Serie A club with a fast growing reputation as the benchmark for clubs plundering La Liga youth academies would make their move. In that time Obiang had finally attracted the interest of Atletico Madrid, enrolling with the Cadetes despite some initial family reservations. "My father only agreed," admits Obiang, "because he knew it was always my ambition to play for Real Madrid." A tentative step closer to what was still a distant dream but still struggling to make an impression, the young Perico was about to get a break. "When I arrived at Atletico I started as a striker," he explains. "But one of the midfielders got injured and the coach tried me there. Since that day, it became my position. I hated it, and I'm still hating (laughs) but they say I can't change."
August 4, 2008 was the date Obiang insists changed his life. Sampdoria Sporting Director Beppe Marotta and trusted lieutenant Fabio Paratici, responsible for a scouting network that is the envy of Europe, came calling. The pair have worked together for a number of years and although now deploying their collective magic at Juventus, had recently been responsible for, among others, snatching a young Roberto Soriano away from Bayern Munich and Mauro Icardi out of Barcelona. Not that Obiang would use the word 'snatch' in his case. "I would say I was almost discarded," he corrects when he considering the desultory transfer fee of €130,000 the Blucerchiati were asked to pay. "Sampdoria offered me a professional contract," says Obiang, "but also a detailed football project specifically for me." It was, he says, far more than just vague promises and was enough to convince both him and his parents that his style of play was better suited to Italian football than it ever would be in La Liga. Still, at just sixteen- the minimum age that an international transfer within the European Union is allowed- the decision by a young footballer to seek his fortune in another country is a momentous one. "It is actually quite widespread, maybe not in Spain, but in the world," says Obiang. "We tend to think that a home-grown player will have more patience to try and break through, but it is very frustrating when someone from outside will take your chance. It is also true that the player who is bought in has a different value to the club. Besides, in Spain there is far more competition at the younger level than there is in Italy, even if in Italy there is maybe a greater fear of throwing youngsters into the first team."
Life in Genoa was initially hard and the city, in Obiang's own words, was not 'an easy fit'. By his estimation it is a place to be admired rather than enjoyed and the first impression is one of remoteness. "It is created and designed more for its citizens than for tourists," thinks the Spaniard, who lists architectural study as one of his keen interests. In fact, he adds pointedly, it has one of the oldest populations in Europe. "The first trip I made was with my manager, Jose Miguel Gonzalez, and my father to see the facilities and to find out about the sports project," he recalls. "The second trip I did alone. I started living in the residence of Vila Flora with the other youth players and it was quite difficult as it would be for any child who leaves their home and changes country. At first I despaired at not understanding the language. Within two months I said to Jose, 'I want to come back, the Italians speak very fast, and the training runs are long here' (laughs). Then I began to better assimilate the tactical concepts and make friends in the locker room and I began to relax."
Although he arrived as an intended member of the 'Allievi Nazionali' youth squad, in the August of 2008 Obiang was immediately thrown in with the first team for pre-season training. By late January of the following year coach Walter Mazzarri had included him as an unused sub in games against both Lazio and Chievo. The next season, with Mazarri now departed, brought promotion to the Primavera, or reserve squad. Obiang says he was learning quickly but there were some aspects that he initially found difficult. "It was physically and especially tactical," he admits. "At first I tended to 'exaggerate' everything with elaborate flourishes, as is encouraged in Spanish football. In Italy there is very little room for such things. I also suffered a lot of blows and endured much contact. I thought 'you can not give me so many kicks'. Tactically, coaches like you to hold your position, to keep things simple, no heels or tunnels. They removed these things very quickly from my game and when I adapted, I started playing more." While still technically a youth player Obiang would go on to make 7 preseason appearances in the summer of the 2010-11 season, scoring 2 goals. His full debut would follow that September after an injury crisis ripped through the Sampdoria first team. Called off the bench to replace Vladimir Koman by new coach Domenico Di Carlo, and with his side trailing Juventus 2-1, Obiang helped his team to a credible 3-3 draw in the Stadio Olimpico di Torino. On the morning of the game he had put pen to paper on a new 5-year deal. A few months later Obiang made his European bow in a 0-2 Europa League defeat to Hungarian side Debreceni. Although disappointing on the night, it would be the start of what has become an enduring fascination for the travel-loving Spaniard. "I love doing it [European competition] because I consider myself a citizen of the world," enthuses Obiang. "To know and to discover irresistible temptations." It is also the reason he has become a self-confessed 'slave' to the Internet. "It opens the mind and satisfies my curiosity," he says, before revealing that for a recent birthday his friends gave him a computer. Surprisingly for someone known as 'Perico' to his friends he says he is not that inclined to tweet; preferring as he does to communicate with people face-to-face.
Although never establishing himself as a regular in a season that would ultimately end in the pain of relegation for Sampdoria, Obiang's education on and off the pitch was continuing apace. "The Italian practice sessions for the first team are done through repetitions," reveals Obiang. "There are sessions where we would work the same concept for an hour; sometimes it can be an hour video study." It is an idea referred to as 'Omni Particulare Cure' and is centred on preparation through obsessive attention to detail. "When you face a technically superior team," he says, "you have to be superior on a tactical and physical level." Obiang also describes with wonderment the 'thrill' of finding himself lining up next to Antonio Cassano and Giampaolo Pazzini for the precious few months before they would depart. "I already knew about Antonio from his time at Madrid when I was living there," he states. "When I trained with him, I felt nervous but I also had the desire to want to prove myself." Cassano could be a little 'fussy' always wanting the ball played to his feet, Obiang explains with a smile, but insists all the veterans gave him confidence. "Even though he was very serious during training, at the end Cassano always had a joke and time to talk with me."
That April Obiang, who also holds Equatoguinean passport, earned a Spanish Under 20 call-up for Porto International Tournament. Despite the fact he never made it onto the field it only served to intensify a tug of war between the two countries that has yet to be definitively settled. After all, if Obiang has always identified himself as Spanish (having also represented the country at Under 17, Under 19 and Under 21) things can still get a little complicated when your uncle- Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo- is an African dictator. Once described as 'worse than Mugabe', the man who routinely refers to himself as El Jefe (the boss) is now the world's third longest-ruling non-royal head of state since he ousted his own uncle (Francisco Macias) in a military coup in 1979. Accused of unlawful killings, government-sanctioned kidnappings; systematic torture, corruption, embezzlement and cannibalism, Obiang is understandably cautious when discussing the subject. "I spoke to him only once, when I first said no to the national team," he says. "I know of his life, but I do not judge. In Guinea, when we speak of family we really mean tribe; it is very different from in Italy or Spain. I have two uncles from my mother's side, and on my father's side they are in double figures." He says that he once asked his father to make a list of all his family members and it was 'so long' that most of the names on it he has never met. Obiang also has a cousin, Ruslan, who is 'Secretary of State and Sport' in the African country with direct influence on national team selection. He says he was last approached by the the Guinean Football Federation prior to their hosting of the 2012 edition of the African Cup of Nations, but declined their entreaties on the grounds he could never agree to play for a country on whose land he has never set foot. "Once my parents migrated, they made the decision to never return there before my coming of age," he states. "They still would never leave me alone, even when I was in Italy. Only now, after 25 years, have they returned to visit the country."
Young Pedro remains the only one of his siblings yet to take the trip to Akam-Esandom, the region where his father was born. "Before they would put more pressure on me," he smiles, "but since they see that things are going well for me in football they understand things differently. They know that I travel a lot and need to focus." Part of his ambivalence can be explained thus: "There are things that scare me a little. I see it in pictures, but I only know the things that I have been told. I want to live my own experience, because not everything is always as advertised. Right now, I could go and not know if I would enjoy it. I'm waiting for the right moment, when I have a longer vacation. I wanted to go last summer, but had to cut short my break because of fitness issues." All of which is to suggest Obiang has not fully turned his back on 'his roots'. Recently, he reveals, he got a call from current Equatorial Guinea coach Andoni Goikoetxea, the legendary 'Butcher of Bilbao'. "He spoke to me again about the project," says Obiang, "but I told him we should talk later because my club were in a negative run at the time and I needed to stay focused. To address such an issue requires a lot of quiet thought but I guess I will need to decide soon." There is, of course, a third option available to Obiang. "Never, even if in theory I could play for the Italian national team," he laughs. "I like to defend the causes I believe in. If I chose the blue shirt, it would be like a betrayal."
Obiang would get a chance to fight for Sampdoria's promotion cause in the 2011-12 season following the club's ignominious fall from grace. With several of the big names- including Cassano and Pazzini- jumping ship, new manager Gianluca Atzori was forced to put his faith in young recruits and academy players. The team struggled initially but following yet another change of coach late in the year finally scraped into the playoffs with a sixth place finish. Obiang made a total of 33 league appearances during the campaign, mostly in a purely defensive midfield capacity, and then shone as the team went on an unexpected run through the promotion deciders that saw them upset both Sassuolo and Varese to return to the top flight after just a year. "I had always believed that sooner or later I would play a leading role for a club at the highest level," states Obiang. The following season he was at the heart of Sampdoria's first survival season back in Serie A; his consistently solid performances in the centre of midfield allowing the more creative players such as Andrea Poli and Icardi the freedom to work their magic. Now established as a key player in the side, his form over 34 league appearances would attract the attentions of some of Europe's top clubs; Chelsea, Tottenham and Manchester City reportedly among those showing interest. "Sampdoria was the ideal club for me to mature and develop my skills," says Obiang when he thinks about the teams rumoured to be looking at him at that time. "But then I also think that dreaming about joining a top club in the future is natural and inevitable." Further evidence of his growing profile was a poll conducted at the end of that 2012-13 season by Inside Spanish Football naming Obiang among their top 15 Spanish youngsters.
As befits a player who started out as a striker, Obiang says that before he came to Italy he was a far more offensive player. Now he had developed into the player he was always meant to be. "I have become a mixture because I had learned a lot of defensive work," he says. "Clearly, I like to get into the penalty area, but now my role is more defensive." Where once he would regularly cite the 'innate elegance' of Zidane as is role-model, now his points of reference are Marcos Senna and Sergio Busquets; to Obiang's eyes the quintessential modern midfielders because they make everything easier through good positioning. "I also love Pirlo because he doesn't just play in front of the defense," he says. "In Italy that player can also control the whole game." For similar reasons he names Xabi Alonso as the player he most admires at the moment. Along with Cruyff and Guti he is the inspiration for why he likes to wear the number 14 on his back. That said, Sam Fribbins, writing for Transfer News Central, thinks there is perhaps an even more apposite comparison to be made with Manchester City's Yaya Touré. "Obiang possesses great stamina and energy enabling him to get around the pitch with ease, especially as a box-to-box midfielder," notes Fribbins. "At the height of 6"2, Obiang can be easily compared to a player such as Touré, since their roles are also fairly similar and both have strong builds, therefore making it hard for any player to push them off the ball." Though larger players, neither are necessarily slow, he observes, and this enables them to make meaningful runs from their own half and well into the opposition's half. Another similar trait is a great passing ability, ranging from little 'one-two's' to the more optimistic medium to long-range passes. This is one reason why the Spanish youth setup regularly employed Obiang as a deep-lying playmaker during his time with the team, since he possesses a good passing ability, as well as being able to closely dribble with the ball. "As well as all this," concludes Fribbins, "Obiang has good tackling ability, again making him a dependable option as a box-to-box player. He is known for his terrific work rate, which is a key attribute for any central midfielder to have. Moreover, his natural fitness is of the highest quality, without sustaining any major injuries throughout his professional career to date."
That latter point would be called into question during the following 2013-14 season when a lingering hernia injury meant Obiang would only feature 27 times. During a stuttering campaign which saw Sampdoria struggling to keep their heads above the relegation places, the Spaniard's meteoric rise temporarily faltered. That November, however, would see the arrival of new manager SiniĊĦa Mihajlovic; the man credited with putting both the club and player back on track. "Mihajlovic kept us under strict control, but it depended on how you reacted to him," reveals Obiang. "In some periods he was serious, and at other times very open." If the midfielder has one criticism of a man he credits as a great influence on his career then maybe, he says, "he takes things too much to heart" before acknowledging "but with him we got great results." The list of people who have played an important part in Obiang's journey is a long one. "The first was my discoverer, Antonio Lozano," he states. "Along with my agent, Jose Miguel, he never let me give up on football. Then I went to Atletico. Felice Tufano also, my first coach in Italy with the youth team. They are the ones who have given me a harder psychological mentality. They were very insistent that you had practiced fully and was always learning. After this the physical training troubled me far less. Now I realize that this is a requirement if you are going to be able to handle the pressure of modern football. Nor do I forget Domenico Di Carlo, who gave me my debut." Aside from Mandela and Obama, who Obiang calls his idols, the rest are what he calls his 'family'. "I need to thank the strength of my mother who convinced me to leave Madrid; the courage of my father the traveler and immigrant; the joy of my sister, who occasionally comes to visit and brings a breath of fresh Spanish air. There is also Samuel Eto'o, symbol of Africa, and then [Alfred] Duncan, [Afriyie] Acquah and [Stefano] Okaka. We feel and treat each other as brothers."
Obiang and his brothers would all play their part in what was to be a momentous return to form for the Blucerchiati in 2014-15. Far from the best set of individuals in the league, their industrious, combative style of play turned them into one of the best teams as they finished an impressive seventh. "It's Samp's level of self-sacrifice and defensive organisation that has been the most impressive aspect of their game," noted Sports Blog Nation's Jack Sargeant. "Unsurprisingly, Mihajlovic emphasised rapid counter-attacks, and urged his team to get the ball forward as soon as they won it back. It was not always pretty, and it lead to them giving the ball away more often than more patient sides, but its success was undeniable." Then there was the fastidious level of training involved. Taking 'Omni Particulare Cure' to extremes, one report from a training session last season tells how the reserves were called upon to replicate Roma's 4-3-3 formation, and for almost an hour the first team practiced winning it back and instantly triggering a counter attack. "There's no doubting that Mihajlovic is an excellent tactician," observed Sargeant. "However, it's not just on the field that the Serb impressed - his press calls continuously provided entertainment. In his introductory press conference, he borrowed heavily from speeches by John F. Kennedy, describing him as "a man whose ideas and words continue to make us dream." He said he'd ask his players "not what Sampdoria can do for them, but what they can do for Sampdoria." A few months later, ahead of a game against Atalanta, he began quoting Dante's epic poem Divine Comedy, urging his players to "push past the Pillars of Hercules." He added that when he arrived at the club, "we were in hell, now we are in purgatory and I want to reach paradise." However, he saved his best literary reference for Samp's trip to Verona, when, in true Shakespearean style, he threatened to "knock Juliet down from the balcony."
The idiosyncratic approach clearly worked for Obiang, whose game over 34 impressive appearances visibly improved again. "He remains neat in possession and loves to get forward, making runs from deep with or without the ball," wrote Unibet's Adam Digby, but now he has added an increased goal threat. According to statistics from WhoScored.com, Obiang averaged 3.1 tackles and 1.7 interceptions per game, the former mark (153) bettered by only four players in Serie A. That compares favourably to the likes of Song (2.6), Mark Noble (1.9) and Cheikhou Kouyate (1.8) last season, while Chelsea's Nemanja Matic, for example, only averaged 2.8 successful tackles per 90 minutes. He also had an impressive 82.2 per cent pass completion rate. "Obiang was often deployed to man-mark a visiting playmaker, sticking to the task diligently and showing a good awareness of the game going on around him," notes Digby. "Long shots at both ends have become something of a trademark, the Alcalá native unafraid to either throw himself in the path of an opposition attempt or unleash a powerful effort of his own." At a point when Spain is still in the grip of the tiki-taka generation of shorter and more agile midfielders, Obiang thinks it is an advantage that he clearly provides another option. "Since I've been away from Spain I feel that I can bring something different," he says. "I have a special mark. My brand is the tactical and physical aspect. In Italy the ball goes faster, so tactically the players are better positioned and apply more pressure so I had to work hard to master that facet." Yet if Obiang had learned to add that physical approach to the neat passing he had learned in the Spanish capital then it is clear that he had not forgotten those lessons, as his delightful through ball to Mauro Icardi for a winning goal against Juventus showed. Then there was the composure and man marking skills displayed against AC Milan, specifically the way he effectively neutralized the threat of Boateng and Montolivo; or the long range effort against Inter Milan that Samir Handanovic somehow parried away from the goal.
Although he clearly blossomed under the guidance of Mihajlovic, notes Digby, there was still a hint of a spat between the two men last season; Obiang gaining notoriety for kicking over a water cooler on the touchline after being substituted during a loss to Lazio. "I'm happy because he was angry with the team's performance and not the substitution," the Serbian said at the time. "It's pointless being angry afterwards, as you need to use that fire on the field." In fact, so great is the respect between the two that Obiang became the first black player to ever be named vice captain at the Genoa club. "My responsibilities remained the same," states the Spaniard. "Us younger players must always show that we are ready to take the next step." It was, nonetheless, an important symbolic gesture in a country where acts of discrimination remain an everyday occurrence. Take for example the recent comments by former Italy manager Arrigo Sacchi that there are 'too many black players' at youth level in Italy and that it is evidence that the nation is now 'without dignity or pride'. "I challenge racism," insists Obiang, "but I can also agree with what he said if the criticism is not about skin color, but vocational training. I grew up in football in Italy, did years of school there, enrolled at the University of Genoa to study Political Science. I feel so at home there, that it seems like I am more a foreigner these days when I visit my father and my mother in Madrid." It helps, of course, to have a thick skin. If being likened to a 'dancing bear' is questionable enough, then regularly being referred to as the 'Coconut Hierro' in the written press is problematic in the extreme. He was fortunate, Obiang says, to live in a city that quickly learned to accept him. "I was, at first, wondering why there were so few blacks there," he admits. "Yet the Genoese people are strange. At the beginning they are suspicious but then if you make the effort they will take you in their hearts and there is no more difficulty." It is the reason, he says, the recent horrific footage of the drowning illegal immigrants 60 miles off the Libyan coast hit so hard. "I hated the way those images were portrayed on TV," he sighs. "It creates an unwarranted fear in people. Intolerance is not always racism, it can be ignorance and selfishness. The world has changed and some people are afraid of losing their status quo, their well-being, because someone else is in trouble economically."
Never one to hold back, when Genoa was hit by catastrophic floods last October for the second time in three years, Obiang could be found rolling up his sleeves to help the so-called 'mud angels' in the massive rescue and clean-up operation. Corriere della Sera, Italy's biggest daily newspaper, attacked the government by announcing in its front page headline: 'The mud of Genoa, shame of a country', while the Archbishop of Genoa called for a 'timely and massive' action by the government to resolve the crisis and prevent similar disasters in future. "When your city has been rocked, it is normal to give something back," says Obiang. At times like these his mind casts back to all those who helped him when he first arrived as that bewildered sixteen year old; from the lowly employees in the club office who would give him the money for a taxi back to his digs, to his 'second mother', Mrs. Cristina, who would make him dinner and speak patiently and incessantly to him in Italian long before he was able to respond in kind. By now it is clear that Pedro Obiang is not your average footballer. A self confessed cinephile (I usually go to the movies two or three times a week) and fluent in several languages including English, his nickname in the Sampdoria dressing-room was 'The Intellectual'. "That started with Mihajlovic," he laughs. It was, he says, on account of his glasses and intellectual pursuits. "I study more as a hobby these days because I never have the time to take exams" admits Obiang. "I studied architecture because of my father, although I was always attracted more to psychology. I think I'm good at talking and I am very interested in the personalities of people." So does he believe in the application of psychology to football? "Yes, it has helped," he insists. "When Sampdoria won promotion to Serie A we had a mental coach who though not specifically a psychologist, worked more on the motivation side. It helped me to relax." After all, he says, it is not always easy to carry out a normal life on the one hand and on the other a football life; to juggle two competing and often conflicting set of expectations. Not even for a dancing bear.
POSTED BY TRILBY AT 10:46
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Marseille statement confirms Payet deal
Posted by Sean Whetstone on June 25, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Marseille appear to be saving face in a PR gesture by publishing a statement on their official website to appease their supporters about the imminent departure of their star player.
"Olympique de Marseille has absolutely no intention to sell his player Dimitri Payet. An agreement was reached in June with Dimitri and his agent. Both sides were in agreement and Dimitri wanted to honour his contract (until 2017)" A statement on the Marseille website reads. "Three days ago, Dimitri's agent requested a new meeting with Vincent Labrune. During this meeting, he announced that his player had opened negotiations with West Ham, saying that the English club offered a big contract for six years, worth €30m." "He asked for a huge and immediate re-evaluation of Payet's contract with Marseille."
"The president expressed his surprise, because negotiations were opened with another club without informing OM. The club declined the demands of Dimitri Payet's agent, agreeing to revise the terms of his contract, but only in mid-July and to reasonable conditions." "The player's agent, refusing this timeline, demanded a quick response from the president, stressing that the English club will be their favoured destination if their demands were not met. "Surprised by this ultimatum, the president decided after a day of reflection to respond favourably to the English bid." "Payet has to decide whether he wants to stay at a club he says he loves and wait until mid-July for a discussion with the president to review his contract, or choose the golden deal that West Ham offered." "Olympique Marseille obviously wants Dimitri choose to stay in Marseille next season"
The statement in French can be found here https://www.om.net/actualites/180697/le-point-sur-lavenir-de-dimitri-payet
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West Ham's £14m Dimitri Payet offer is "impossible" to compete with, admits Marseille president
10:34, 25 JUNE 2015
BY NEIL MCLEMAN
"No-one in France, apart from PSG, can give this to a player. They are asking for the biggest gross salary in the history of Marseille," said Vincent Labrune
The Mirror
Marseille's president has admitted his club cannot compete with the financial power of West Ham for the signing of Dimitri Payet. Vincent Labrune has claimed the Upton Park club have upped their offer every week in the last month to £14m as they bid to sign the playmaker – and offered personal terms more than the French club can afford. And after reluctantly accepting the Hammers' offer, he said the decision now rests with the player and his agents. Labrune told L'Equipe: "You need to know that we don't want to sell Dimitri Payet. "But the player and his agent have been talking to West Ham for a while and they have an offer which we cannot match. Now they have this offer, they want a considerable rise to stay at Marseille. It would mean an €18m (£12.8m) investment for Marseille. "No-one in France, apart from PSG, can give this to a player. They are asking for the biggest gross salary in the history of Marseille "You cannot play in France with the salary of a star of the Premier League. It is impossible for us." The France winger, 28, still has two years left on his contract. The Marseille boss added: "When they tell you that they want the massive offer from the English, what can you do?
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Report: West Ham offered Oliver Torres deal, will choose Dimitri Payet instead
HITC
Olly Dawes
West Ham will reportedly sign Dimitri Payet despite being offer Atletico youngster Oliver Torres. According to The Sun, West Ham were offered the chance to sign Atletico Madrid youngster Oliver Torres - but will sign Dimitri Payet instead. French midfielder Payet, 28, is set to join the Hammers in a huge £11.5m deal according to The Sun, with new manager Slaven Bilic splashing the cash ahead of the new season. Payet had a great season for Marseille and will provide a creative spark in the final third for West Ham, but reports suggest it could have all been so different. The Sun believe that West Ham were offered Atletico Madrid playmaker Oliver Torres - but the Hammers snubbed the opportunity, and will sign Payet instead. Torres, 20, is a product of the Atletico youth academy, and has earned comparisons to Manchester City's David Silva due to his style of play. This past season, Torres has been out on loan in Portugal with Porto, scoring six goals in 34 games before returning to Atletico this summer. It's unclear whether West Ham were offered Torres permanently, but given how highly-rated he is in Spain, it is more likely that it would be a season-long loan deal - which could be why West Ham would prefer Payet permanently.
Payet - money well spent?
The French international will cost a reported £11.5m, which would make him one of the most expensive signings in West Ham's history. Payet is now 28, and £11.5m is a huge amount of money to pay for someone approaching 30 - and West Ham must be aware that the player will have little resale value in a couple of years time. Payet should have an instant impact at West Ham, but he's far from a player for the future, and the Hammers should consider a younger winger or playmaker as well as Payet this summer.
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West Ham confident of Yohan Cabaye & Loïc Rémy deals
http://www.getfootballnewsfrance.com/
According to today's edition of L'Équipe, West Ham United's summer transfer window pillage of French football has only just begun. The London club have made their interest in PSG's Yohan Cabaye and Chelsea's Loïc Rémy crystal clear and are even confident of doing both of these deals at the time of writing. More undoubtedly to follow.
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West Ham are about to sign a player more creative than Lionel Messi, Eden Hazard or Cesc Fabregas
09:39, 25 JUNE 2015
BY RICHARD INNES
Forget Roberto Firmino - the stats say the Hammers may just have made the signing of the summer
The Mirror
The transfer window isn't even officially open yet, and agents across Europe are already doing cartwheels. David De Gea to Real Madrid, Sergio Ramos to Man United, Raheem Sterling to anyone… there are some huge names being linked with huge moves right now. Thanks to all that excitement, you might have missed the news that West Ham are on the verge of completing the £10.7m signing of Dimitri Payet. We know what you're thinking. 'A Marseille forward, signing for a mid-table team? Why should I care about that?'
THIS is why:
Most chances created, top five European leagues, 2014/15
Dimitri Payet (Marseille)
Kevin De Bruyne (Wolfsburg)
Eden Hazard (Chelsea)
Nolito (Celta Vigo)
Cesc Fabregas (Chelsea)
Lionel Messi (Barcelona)
Yes, Payet created an enormous 135 chances for his team last season - more than any other player in England, Spain, Italy, France or Germany.
That's 34 more than Eden Hazard.
That's 40 more than Cesc Fabregas.
That's 40 more than Lionel Messi.
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Marseille release statement over Dimitri Payet
In an official press release, Marseille have announced that they have no intention of selling Dimitri Payet, despite agreeing a fee with West Ham.
http://www.getfootballnewsfrance.com/
They had the following to say:
"Marseille makes it clear that it absolutely does not have the intention of selling its player Dimitri Payet. At the beginning of the month of June, an agreement had been found with Dimitri and his agent. The two parties endorsed at this time that the attacking midfielder would honour the final two years of his contract. On the 22nd of June, Dimitri's agent asked for another meeting with President Vincent Labrune. During this meeting, he announced that he and his player had opened negotiations with West Ham, explaining that the English club were offering a 6 year contract worth €30m over this period for the player. Due to this, the agent asked for a colossal and immediate contract extension so that Payet could stay at Marseille. Unable to agree to this demand, Marseille, through the voice of its President, first expressed his surprise that negotiations with another club had been opened without Marseille's agreement."
"The club then pushed back the reckless demands of Dimitri Payet's agent explaining that he had agreed to revise contract conditions of the player but only in mid-July, after Marseille had respected its commitments to the DNCG. The agent, who refuted these claims, asked Vincent Labrune for a quick answer affirming, that if they he didn't, the English offer would be the one that Payet's team looks favourably on. Surprised by this ultimatum, the Marseille President decided after half a day's reflection to respond favourably to the English offer whilst reminding the player of his responsibilities. 1) Wait until mid-July for discussions with the President over a contract renewal or, 2) Take the golden deal from West Ham. Marseille obviously wants Dimitri to decide to stay at Marseille next season."
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Bilic describes specific criteria as he looks for new players
HITC
Lewis Doe
West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic has explained what he's looking for in any new signings. West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic told West Ham TV the criteria he will use as he looks to go about improving the squad over the rest of the summer. Bilic has already made a good signing in the form of midfielder Pedro Obiang and has stressed to WHTV that he won't be looking to bring players in unless they are better than the options he already has in that position. "First, we have a good team, second, we can't afford to buy players just for the sake of buying. We are going to try and be active but only if those players are better than the ones we already have," he said.
Is a stubborn approach the best option?
Bilic's stubbornness over transfers does make sense, but the Hammers are under pressure to improve their squad. The club play their first game of the season next Thursday and it's likely to be the first of a very high volume of games over the next 11 months. Bilic needs good options in all positions and he needs to be confident that he can make changes when he starts to spot signs of fatigues in key individuals. It's important he has those options when the higher profile and more difficult games start to come thick and fast.
Where do West Ham need new players?
The Hammers could arguably use a new player at right-back because there's no guarantee they will be able to get Carl Jenkinson back on loan from Arsenal. There's also an arguable need for a new midfielder, who could be needed to replace Alex Song, as well as an extra wide man and another option through the middle of the attack following the exit of Carlton Cole. It all adds up to a lot of cash and hard work for Bilic but hopefully he can rise to the challenge.
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Report: West Ham lodge ambitious bid to sign Chelsea outcast Mohamed Salah
HITC
Olly Dawes
West Ham are reportedly trying to take Chelsea outcast Mohamed Salah on loan. According to the Daily Mirror, West Ham are set to lodge an ambitious bid to sign Chelsea winger Mohamed Salah on loan this summer. The Hammers have brought in two signings so far this summer, landing Birmingham City goalkeeper Darren Randolph and Sampdoria midfielder Pedro Obiang. Reports from the Daily Mail suggest that West Ham are on the verge of signing Marseille playmaker Dimitri Payet, but new manager Slaven Bilic is reportedly seeking another attacking addition. The Mirror believe that West Ham will lodge an audacious bid to take Chelsea winger Mohamed Salah on loan for next season, with a view to signing him permanently. The Egyptian wide man, 23, was sent out on loan to Fiorentina in January having struggled for first team football under Jose Mourinho, but he dazzled in Italy. With nine goals in 26 games for the Serie A side, Salah proved how effective he can be - and it seems West Ham were suitably impressed with his performances, with a bid lodged according to reports.
Can West Ham really land Salah?
It's certainly an ambitious move from West Ham to pursue Salah, with bigger clubs no doubt interested after his Inter Milan performances. Chelsea boss Mourinho would probably rather send him abroad, but with Europa League football, West Ham certainly stand a chance of signing Salah on loan if the player wants to remain in the Premier League. A permanent deal seems unlikely, but West Ham saw great performances from Arsenal loanee Carl Jenkinson last season, meaning they could well go back to the loan market for reinforcements this summer.
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Reece Burke suggests Hammers haven't changed despite new manager
Lewis Doe
HITC
/West Ham United youngster Reece Burke feels there is a feeling of continuity despite a managerial change at the club. West Ham United youngster Reece Burke has told the club's website that he's feeling fresh after returning to pre-season training with the Hammers. The club don't have too long to wait before their first game of the season next week, as they take on FC Lusitans as they look to qualify for the group stage of the Europa League. It's an exciting opportunity for the Hammers and Burke is one player who could feature for new manager Slaven Bilic, taking charge of his first game at Upton Park. "It's really good to be back on the training pitch - The legs were a little tired after that first session, but I felt fresh on Tuesday and am feeling good [for pre-season]," he told whufc.com. "We've only had a little break but I think that's good for us. Being back now rather than having a long period of time not getting the football in, it just feels the same."
Does the first game come too soon?
There is an argument which exists suggesting that the game next Thursday could catch West Ham's players off guard in terms of preparations. However, Bilic will back the quality he already has in the squad and will back each player to win his individual battle against their Andorran opponents. It would be a much more precarious situation for the Hammers than would have been the case, had they been coming up against a much tougher opponent. Burke is right to suggest that continuity is important for the Hammers because the side is much more likely to play well with familiarity and feeling comfortable. However, changes are needed looking back to the end of last season, because the team did look flat at times towards the end of the campaign under old boss Sam Allardyce. Bilic should ensure that there's a greater sense of urgency with the game next week, which is also an early chance for any first team squad member to impress him.
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Let's Hear It For The Boy: Sebastian Lletget proving to be the real deal for the LA Galaxy
Lletget has scored four goals in his last four games for LA
JUNE 25, 2015
Larry Morgan
LAGalaxy.com
CARSON, Calif. – LA Galaxy head coach Bruce Arena knew he was getting a talented player when he signed Sebastian Lletget in early May 8 and was confident he would help solidify his midfield.
But this is ridiculous. The 22-year-old, who last month joined the Galaxy from West Ham United, has four goals in six matches across all competitions, including a goal in Wednesday's impressive 5-0 romp over the Portland Timbers in front of 21,207 at StubHub Center. "Bruce has given me a chance and I'm just doing what I think I can do," he said after the game.
Lletget has been nothing short of sensational since he joined the defending MLS Cup champions, but it was definitely a work in progress Lletget made his debut with the English Premier League side in an FA Cup match against Nottingham Forest last year, but that was it for first-team appearances. Lletget then trained with the Galaxy during their preseason tour of Sweden and Ireland and officially joined the club on May 8.
Lletget made his first start with LA on June 13 in Columbus – he also scored his first goal in that game – and has been a force since. He scored in the 13th minute Wednesday after a fortuitous deflection on a pass from Dan Gargan and then was pushed down from behind by the Timbers' Maximiliano Urruti in the penalty area five minutes later. Robbie Keane scored on the ensuing kick for a 2-0 lead and the rout was on. It was a very good performance," Arena said of Lletget. "In the early minutes of the game was our best player. He made a bunch of good plays and then ultimately got the first goal."
Lletget said his goal simply was being in the right place at the right time. "I was just waiting for it. I think everything was timing," he said. "I knew the cross was coming, then it was just getting the ball and finishing. "It wasn't easy. With those you have to have a good connection and hit it toward the goal, and luckily it went in." The Bay Area native estimated he'll have as many as 50 tickets waiting for family and friends for Saturday's clash with the San Jose Earthquakes at Stanford Stadium – "It's ridiculous," he said with a grin – and said he finally feels comfortable in his new surroundings. But he admitted it took a while. "I think the way Bruce managed it … bringing me in slowly, coming on as a sub," he said. "Then starting against Columbus was good, especially with the goal. It was a good way to start with this team. I felt confident; I just hope to keep it going."
The Galaxy's Robbie Keane, who had a goal and two assists Wednesday, has been impressed with the newcomer. "He's got some quality," Keane said. "He's young, he's been great and he's scored a few goals, which is very important to us. He continues to do that and listens to experienced players and know when to run at people, take on people … just keep it simple. "Already he's been a big addition."
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Report: Everton attempted hijack bid for West Ham's expected new signing Dimitri Payet
Tom Thorogood
West Ham United are closing in on a deal for Dimitri Payet. According to reports in The Sun, West Ham United will tie up a deal for Marseille's Dimitri Payet over the next 24 hours despite a late bid from fellow Premier League side Everton. The 28-year-old winger has been linked with a move to the Hammers for much of the summer following an impressive campaign in the French top-flight. As per The Sun, Payet is flying in for a medical with the Hammers after agreeing to a five-year, £65,000-a-week deal following an accepted bid in the region of £11.5 million.
The expected arrival of Payet represents a real coup for the East London outfit, but one which has seemingly swung back and forth with fresh reports claiming Everton made a late offer.
"Dimitri Payet will join West Ham today for around £11.5 million after snubbing Everton. The French international, 28, opted for the Hammers despite a late bid from Toffees boss Roberto Martinez," the report claims.
What can Hammers supporters expect?
Payet can be described as a gifted attacking player who is able to play in a range of positions off the main striker, though he was largely deployed as a winger last term. He played 35 French top-flight matches last season, racking up an incredible 17 assists and averaging 1.8 successful take-ons and 3.7 key passes per match. Clearly comfortable with the ball and blessed with an eye for key passes in the final third, Payet will be a key player in helping the Hammers adjust from their previous direct style into a team that utilises short passing.
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Charlie Austin fears £15m price-tag is putting off potential buyers
Queens Park Rangers goalscorer will plead with club bosses to cut his transfer fee as he fears being priced out of a move from relegated Londoners
Telegraph.co.uk
By Matt Law10:30PM BST 24 Jun 2015
Charlie Austin will plead with Queens Park Rangers to drop their £15 million asking price for him if it continues to put off potential buyers. QPR are yet to receive a single official bid for Austin this summer, even though a number of Premier League clubs are desperate for new strikers. Newcastle United have shown the most interest in the striker so far, but value him closer to £10m. Austin had hoped Southampton, West Ham United and evenTottenham Hotspur might offer him a route back to the top flight, but none of those clubs have made an inquiry at this stage. While it is still early in the summer, Austin is keen to get his future resolved in plenty of time for the start of the new season, on Aug 8. There is also the worry that he will start to run out of options if clubs pursue different targets while his asking price remains at £15m. Austin scored 18 goals in his first season in the Premier League and earned a call-up to Roy Hodgson's last England squad. With only Sergio Aguero, Harry Kane and Diego Costa ahead of Austin in last season's Premier League scoring chart, QPR believe their valuation of Austin is fair. Aguero, Kane and Costa would all fetch well over £30m, while Aston Villa are demanding £32.5m for Christian Benteke, who scored five fewer goals than Austin. QPR signed Austin for £4m from Burnley two years ago and his Loftus Road contract only has one year left to run. Chelsea have been linked with a move to make Austin their third-choice striker if Loic Remy leaves, but the player's former QPR manager, Harry Redknapp, has urged him to join Newcastle if a fee can be agreed. "A move to Newcastle would be the best one for Charlie Austin," said Redknapp, writing for social network site Kicca. "He's rumoured to be on Chelsea's radar as well but, no disrespect to him, he won't make their starting line-up. They only play one up front and he's not going to replace Diego Costa. "He's 25 and he's scored some good goals, and I think Newcastle would be a good move for him and a good challenge. He's a good lad and knows Steve McClaren from when Steve was at QPR, and I reckon he'll do well at Newcastle."
QPR have confirmed that assistant-manager Kevin Bond will leave the club when his contract expires at the end of this month. Bond joined QPR as part of Redknapp's backroom staff in 2012, but Chris Ramsey has since taken over as manager. A QPR statement read: "Kevin Bond will leave QPR when his contract expires at the end of this month. The 58 year-old, who joined Rangers as part of former manager Harry Redknapp's backroom team in November 2012, will depart when his current deal concludes on June 30. "The club would like to place on the record its thanks to Kevin for his services to QPR and wish him well for the future. A further announcement regarding Chris Ramsey's backroom team will be made in due course."
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Marseille & West Ham finalise agreement for Dimitri Payet
getfootballnewsfrace.com
According to La Provence, Marseille and West Ham have just dotted the i's and crossed the t's on a deal for the transfer of Dimitri Payet. The player joins for €15m excluding bonuses and is expected in London tomorrow morning, currently on a flight from Mauritius to London as we speak. A deal should be wrapped on Thursday, but it is clear that Marseille have given up in trying to keep the player by offering him a good contract extension. The only way this deal collapses is if the player has a change of heart despite no decent contract extension offer from Marseille.
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helsea transfers: West Ham launch Mohamed Salah loan move
22:30, 24 JUNE 2015
BY DARREN LEWIS
Egyptian winger who is surplus to requirements at the champions scored nine goals in 26 games last season after being farmed out at Fiorentina
The Mirror
West Ham have launched an audacious bid to sign Mohamed Salah from Chelsea. The east Londoners have asked to loan the £17million-rated Egypt international with an option to buy. It comes with the Hammers closing in on a £17m swoop for another attacker, Marseille's Dimitri Payet. Salah, 23, has just had an impressive loan spell at Fiorentina after a January deal which saw Colombian Juan Cuadrado move to Stamford Bridge from the Italians. Although Cuadrado has struggled to settle in London, Chelsea maintain there is a future for him. Salah, however, is surplus to requirements. He is now set to decide, in conjunction with Blues chiefs, whether he wants to remain in Italy, move to a club in Spain or return to the Premier League with another team to play on a more regular basis. Although a number of bigger clubs have expressed an interest, Mirror Sport understands West Ham's approach has not been dismissed. Salah scored nine goals in 26 appearances for Fiorentina and helped to knock Spurs out of the Europa League in February. He is among a number of high-calibre stars targeted by West Ham - set to move into the Olympic Stadium next year - as they look to overhaul the side for new boss Slaven Bilic. They are confident of landing Payet, 28, on a five-year deal with an option for a sixth despite a new contract offer for the player from his club.
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Sunderland are mulling over a new bid for Stewart Downing, ChronicleLive understands
06:30, 25 JUNE 2015
BY STEVE BROWN
Sunderland could improve their offer for Stewart Downing but sources suggest the player is keen to stay at West Ham
chrniclelive.co.uk
Sunderland are weighing up an improved, £7 million offer for Stewart Downing, The Chronicle understands. However, sources in London suggest the 30-year-old looks likely to stay at West Ham United - despite their move for Olympique Marseille winger Dimitri Payet. Reports claimed the Black Cats had had a £5 million bid for Downing rejected by the Hammers. Dick Advocaat and sporting director Lee Congerton are determined to overhaul a squad which avoided relegation from the Premier League only in the final week of last season. Middlesbrough-born Downing started his career at his hometown club but came to prominence at the Riverside only after a seven-game loan spell on Wearside in 2003, when he scored three goals. Following stints at Aston Villa and Liverpool, he joined West Ham in a £5 million deal in August 2013 and has two years left on his current contract. Yet despite Downing producing some of the best performances of his career last term, particularly when deployed as a No 10, new Hammers manager Slaven Bilic is understood to be keen to cash in on the England international - but only at the right price. That could tempt an improved offer from Sunderland, especially as West Ham seem increasingly confident of luring Payet to the Boleyn Ground in a £15 million switch from cash-strapped Marseille.
Jack Sullivan, the son of co-chairman David Sullivan, said: "We hope to announce a very large eight-figure deal within five days." A deal for the 28-year-old - who has 14 senior caps for France - does appear imminent. Whether Payet's arrival sparks Downing's departure, however, remains to be seen, London sources indicating a willingness on the player's part to stay and fight for his place. Meanwhile, the agent of Georginio Wijnaldum has explained Sunderland's pursuit of the PSV Eindhoven midfielder cooled due to the absence of a buy-out clause in the player's contract. Reports had claimed the Wearside outfit were offering £11 million for the Dutchman, who has also been linked with Newcastle United, Southampton, West Ham and Zenit St Petersburg. However, the 24-year-old's agent Humphrey Nijman has said Sunderland's interest extended only to an enquiry about Wijnaldum's availability.
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Are West Ham not interested in signing Serie A duo Mattia Destro and Zdravko Kuzmanovic?
HITC
Damien Lucas
West Ham United are not interested in signing Roma's Mattia Destro or Inter Milan's Zdravko Kuzmanovic, according to a source published by the club's website. The Hammers are being linked with a host of players at home and abroad as they bid to strengthen their squad for a new era under Slaven Bilic. The Premier League side could be facing a long season due to their involvement in the Europa League which could add as many as 23 games to their fixture schedule. The East Londoners know they must have a big squad and have already signed goalkeeper Darren Randolph from Birmingham City and Spanish midfielder Pedro Obiang from Italian side Sampdoria. But they won't be returning to Serie A for Destro and Kuzmanovic according to a club source dubbed 'The Boleyn Insider' who has their own blog on West Ham's official website. In the source's latest column - which promises to 'bring you exclusive insight into the behind-the-scenes goings on at the Boleyn Ground' - the Insider claims reports in the likes of The Mirror and The Express are wide of the mark. The source said: "West Ham have also been linked with a move for Inter Milan midfielder Zdravko Kuzmanovic who has also attracted interest from other Premier League clubs. "But my sources have told me that the east London club were never in the market to sign the Serbia international."
And on reports of a bid for striker Destro, the source added: "I believe that is just speculation and the club will continue to work hard in their attempts to strengthen the squad."
Kuzmanovic, who is also said to be interesting Watford, first made his name at FC Basel before moves to Fiorentina, Stuttgart and Inter in 2013. The 27-year-old has played 242 games in his club career, scoring 24 goals from midfield. He has also got 50 caps for his country and six goals in the national shirt. However, he has not established himself as a key player at the San Siro and has never played more than 15 games in his three seasons there so far. Destro at 24 has lots of potential and has scored 41 goals in 117 club games so far for the likes of Roma and last season on loan at AC Milan. The Italy international has eight caps and was the subject of intense transfer speculation last year being heavily linked with moves to West Ham's London rivals Chelsea and Real Madrid. Destro is famous in Italy for an outrageous 40-yard half-volley in a 2-0 victory over Hellas Verona. It could be telling though that Roma were willing to loan him out to a rival last season.
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Thursday, June 25
Daily WHUFC News - 25th June 2015
Burke looks to make most of early return
WHUFC.com
Reece Burke is glad the Hammers have returned to action so early ahead of the 2015/16 season as it gives him the ideal opportunity to continue his positive momentum from last term.
The 18-year-old defender made his Barclays Premier League breakthrough in the closing weeks of 2014/15, filling in with both James Tomkins and James Collins injured. A UEFA Europa League tie against Andorra's FC Lusitans is now just over a week away, so Burke has his sights set firmly on that Boleyn Ground clash. "It's really good to be back on the training pitch," he confirmed. "The boys got back together on Monday, then we flew out to Ireland on Tuesday and are here for the next six days. "The legs were a little tired after that first session, but I felt fresh on Tuesday and am feeling good [for pre-season]. "We've only had a little break but I think that's good for us. Being back now rather than having a long period of time not getting the football in, it just feels the same. "It doesn't feel like you've missed out on anything, so it's good to be back early. "I finished last season so quite well, so obviously I'm looking to crack on and pick up from where I left off. "This European campaign gives everyone a good opportunity. Especially myself, I'm looking forward to it, having not played in the competition before. "I've played against different countries with the England age groups, so I'm used to teams from different countries playing in different ways. I think we'll be alright."
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Boleyn Insider
WHUFC.com
As the Club prepare to embark on their European adventure with the first qualifying round of the Europa League taking place next week I can reveal that West Ham supporters could have even more reason to be excited heading into the start of the season. There have been numerous reports suggesting the Club are ready to make a multi-million pound offer for one of the star performers in Europe. My understanding is that the Club are now confident of finalising a deal in the next 72 hours and that it will be the first eight figure signing of the summer. The Club are certainly showing their intent for next season and are determined to bring the best players to the Boleyn Ground as new manager Slaven Bilic prepares for a busy schedule in both domestic and European competition. West Ham have also been linked with a move for Inter Milan midfielder Zdravko Kuzmanovic who has also attracted interest from other Premier League clubs. But my sources have told me that the east London club were never in the market to sign the Serbia international. There have also been reports linking Roma striker Mattia Destro with a move to the Boleyn Ground but I believe that is just speculation and the Club will continue to work hard in their attempts to strengthen the squad. Stay tuned to whufc.com for any further developments.
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Sakho wants to be top goalscorer
WHUFC.com
West Ham United striker Diafra Sakho wants to make a big impression under new manager Slaven Bilic next season and hopes to get among the goals straight away in the Europa League next week. Sakho enjoyed a memorable first season in the Premier League scoring 12 goals but was forced to miss the final part of the campaign after he suffered a thigh injury during the 1-1 draw with Stoke back on 11 April. The Senegal forward has been working hard throughout the summer to regain full fitness and was able to join up with the squad for the first day of pre-season training this week, before flying out to Ireland for a training camp. With West Ham back in action on July 2 when they face FC Lusitans in the first qualifying round of the Europa League at the Boleyn Ground, Sakho says he cannot wait to get back playing again and hopes to be among the top scorers next season. Sakho said: "I am fit for the start of the season. I was given a programme to follow over the summer and I will be ready for the first game. "I enjoyed my first season in England and next season I would like to score 20 goals. "I am happy to be back at the club and see all the players and the new arrivals. I know we are coming back earlier than normal but I am pleased to be back in action. "I am really looking forward to playing under Slaven Bilic and excited to see what he will bring to the team. "It is great for the club to be back in Europe and it is one of our objectives. The players are excited to be playing in the Europa League."
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The hard work continues in Cork
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's training camp in Ireland continued on Wednesday with a full day of training. The squad were put through their paces in an intense session on the pitches in the morning, which included sharp ball work and 11v11 drills. After lunch, the players then moved onto the gym, where they could work on their strength and conditioning in the run-up to the UEFA Europa League first qualifying round tie against FC Lusitans. Hammers defender Doneil Henry takes us through the day… "For me, today was a day when I was on the field less and more about getting into my stride, and getting back into my sprinting form," he explained. "Then we went into the gym and I worked on strengthening my hamstring and getting back into regular form before slowly integrating myself into full training on a daily basis.
It's what pre-season's all about. Coming together as a team and getting the fitness in. We work with the coaches, find out their system of play and do the dirty stuff – digging in, getting deep and trying to win matches when the season starts."
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Labour calls for Olympic Stadium deal to be published
BBC.co.uk
Labour has called on the government to publish the full details of West Ham's deal to move into the Olympic Stadium "as a matter of urgency". In a debate about the Olympic legacy, shadow culture secretary Chris Bryant highlighted the cost of the conversion and called it a "fiasco". The cost of transforming the venue into a stadium ready for football has reached £272m. Conservative MP and London Mayor Boris Johnson pointed the finger at Labour. Of the £272m total transformation costs, £15m is being provided by West Ham United football club, who are occupying it from next season, with £1m coming from UK Athletics. Mr Bryant told MPs the total spend on the venue would reach £700m, more per spectator than Wembley stadium, and more over budget than the total cost of converting the 2002 Commonwealth Games venue for use by Manchester City. "This has the feel of a fiasco cooked up somewhere between the Mayor's Office, DCMS (Departure for Culture, Media and Sport) and the Treasury," he said. "Which is why, in the interests of transparency, I urge the government to publish the full details of West Ham's secret deal as a matter of urgency." Mr Johnson said "it was indeed" a mess that had been "cooked up", but said the former Labour mayor and then Labour government had been responsible. "It was the Treasury under Alistair Darling and Gordon Brown who decided to go ahead with a stadium that was completely unsuitable for the purpose," he added. Culture Secretary John Whittingdale said there were "good reasons" why full details of the arrangement with West Ham could not be published, saying things such as the terms of the rent should be confidential, as to publicise them could jeopardise future negotiations with possible tenants. The parties also clashed over the sporting legacy left by the 2012 games, with Labour claiming participation had dropped in the following years in many parts of the country. Mr Bryant accused the government of "an own goal, a dropped baton, a belly flop". Mr Whittingdale criticised his "synthetic outrage" and said the London games had left an "amazing legacy". "We were always clear that legacy was at the heart of our preparation" he said, saying strong progress had been made in terms of the regeneration of east London and increased sporting participation.
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Deal close but not complete - Payet agent
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 24th June 2015
By: Staff Writer
Marseille forward Dimitri Payet is on the verge of sealing an £11million move to West Ham, according to the player's agent. Jacques-Olivier Auguste revealed tonight that a deal that would take his client to the Premier League was close to being completed - although the 28-year-old is yet to sign on the dotted line. "It's almost done, but not 100 per cent," Auguste told Eurosport, before adding: "We are still a little hopeful that Marseille can make something happen on their end." That final comment tends to indicate that Payet and his team are hoping for L'OM to make the 15 times-capped French international a fresh offer which would keep him at the Stade Vélodrome.
However West Ham are understood to have already agreed a deal worth a shade under £11million for Payet, who has been offered a four-year contract worth £60,000 per week (David Hytner, Guardian). Payet, who has spent the last two seasons at Marseille is expected to arrive in London tomorrow morning (via Mauritius) for a medical.
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Shadow minister urges Government to reveal West Ham deal
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 24th June 2015
By: Staff Writer
Shadow Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Chris Bryant has expressed his concerns regarding the agreement allowing West Ham United to become tenants of the Olympic Stadium.
Former Orient Chairman Barry Hearn, a long-term opponent of West Ham's tenancy insisted yesterday that the full details of the deal - which have never been disclosed - should be released into the public domain. And now Bryant, who was appointed following Labour's General Election defeat last month has echoed Hearn's calls - whilst claiming the Olympic Stadium regeneration project is "over budget" with "the feel of a fiasco". "The Coalition said it would ensure the development of the Olympic Park after the Games," read a speech Bryant is due to give in the House of Commons this afternoon. "Here there are further legacy worries. "So far the cost of transforming the venue into a stadium ready for football has reached £272m, with £15m from West Ham, £1m from UK Athletics, £40m from Newham and £25 m from the Government. "That means the overall spend on the venue will now top £700m for the 54,000-seater arena - a lot more expensive per spectator than the £798m lavished on the 90,000-capacity Wembley."
Bryant then went on to question the "transparency" of the deal - and the costs, which far exceed those required to convert Manchester's Commonwealth Games stadium for the use of Manchester City. "The project is now over-budget by around £35m, which comes close to the total cost of converting the City of Manchester stadium after the 2002 Commonwealth Games," he added. "This has the feel of a fiasco cooked up somewhere between the Mayor London's Office, DCMS and the Treasury. Which is why, in the interests of transparency, I urge the government to publish the full details of West Ham's secret deal as a matter of urgency."
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David Gold fires back in latest OS row
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 24th June 2015
By: Staff Writer
David Gold has told former Leyton Orient chairman Barry Hearn to "get over it" following the latest row regarding the tenancy of the Olympic Stadium. Gold - speaking via Twitter this morning - also told Hearn to "move on", 24 hours after the former Orient supremo yet again questioned the validity of the agreement allowing West Ham to take occupancy of the Olympic Stadium.
David Gold ?@davidgold
Barry 'she's left you for a younger, richer man' get over it. Move on. dg
9:56 AM - 24 Jun 2015
The latest row began when Dagenham-born Hearn, whose long-running legal battle to prevent West Ham occupying the arena ended last summer when he sold the club to Italian businessman Francesco Becchetti, insisted that details of West Ham's occupation of the stadium should be made public. "The actual deal West Ham has got is still confidential and our current mayor of London is refusing to reveal details," he said. "As a taxpayer, I find that quite confusing. "When people spend my money, I rather like to know what it's been spent on. In the absence of that information we can only speculate that it is a deal so beneficial to West Ham that it becomes questionable in its own right."
West Ham's contribution to the £272million costs required to make the stadium fit for Premier League football is reported to be just £15million. However the club's annual ground rent - estimated to be in the region of £2million per year - has never been confirmed.
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Arsenal youngster on trial
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 24th June 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham have taken Arsenal's teenage defender George Dobson on trial. The web was awash with rumour and speculation yesterday afternoon when 17-year-old Dobson was pictured at Chadwell Heath training in West Ham's colours. And KUMB can reveal that the Hammers are hoping to tie up a deal for the central defender, who is set to leave the Emirates having decided that he is unlikely to make the first team squad in the near future. Dobson, who hails from Harold Wood made his debut for Arsenal's youth team in the 2012/13 season and has also featured sporadically at Under 21 level since. A central defender by trade, he has also featured as a defensive midfielder. Should he complete a move to West Ham, Dobson will become the second youngster to move from Arsenal in recent seasons, following the capture of 18-year-old Jordan Brown in summer 2013.
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West ham bid £14m for Marseille's Dimitri Payet
Last Updated: 22/06/15 12:26pm
SSN
West Ham have made a £14m bid for Marseille midfielder Dimitri Payet, according to Sky sources. The Londoners are leading the race to sign Payet, an attacking midfielder who has been capped by France and can also play out wide. West Ham have already signed Spain U21 midfielder Pedro Obiang and former Manchester City trainee Martin Samuelsen since appointing Slaven Bilic as manager.
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Payet arrives at 8.30am
Posted by Sean Whetstone on June 24, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Fresh reports say Dimitri Payet has boarded a British Airways flight bound for London Gatwick which is due to arrive tomorrow morning at 8.30am. Flight BA2062 is expected to touch down at Gatwick North terminal just before 8.30am on Thursday. His flight took off at 11.30pm local time in Mauritius around 8.30pm UK time on his 6050 mile journey to London. Canal Plus journalist Pierre Menes claims he spoke to Payet before boarding his flight claiming: "Dimitri called me from the airport of Mauritius. He arrives in London tomorrow morning for the medical visit. Then the denials…" Menes claims he will sign a four year deal for 15 million Euros.
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Players haven't met Slaven Bilic yet
Posted by Sean Whetstone on June 24, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Hammer Matty Jarvis spoke to TalkSport radio today from the training camp in Cork, Ireland as the West Ham squad prepare for the start of their Europa League campaign against Andorran minnows FC Lusitans in eight days time. He admitted the squad have yet to meet the new gaffer. "I haven't met [Slaven Bilic] yet," Jarvis told Talk Sport "He's coming out [to Ireland] on Friday." "It'll be good to meet him and see what his way of doing things is." Asked about his own targets Jarvis told the Drivetime programme: " A new manger's coming in, hopefully I'll get a chance to prove what I can do and then try to get in the team, stay in the team and play as many games as I possibly can, and for the club we need to progress on what we did last year after such a great start"
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Payet deal expected "in 48 hours"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 24, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
West Ham are expecting to tie up the 15 million Euro transfer of Dimitri Payet from Marseilles within the next 48 hours. As speculation intensifies on the social networks that the deal could be done as soon as this evening, top sources told Claret and Hugh: "Progress is being made and it should be done in 48 hours. " It's been a torturous journey for the Irons with the same source telling us earlier today that "it's like pulling teeth out." However, our understanding is that after Payet rejected a new deal with the French club, Marseilles came to an agreement on the fee with the Irons negotiaters and the player will now fly to London to agree personal terms.
However, we also understand that tough agent Willie Mackay (above) is looking after the player's interests and some fierce negotiating still needs to take place before the brilliant play maker is presented as the latest Irons signing. Mackay, however, has a track record of delivering French players to Premier League clubs and recently represented Andre Ayew in the talks that saw the player join Swansea.
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Report: Payet's Irons wage offer 'revealed'
Posted by Sean Whetstone on June 24, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
French paper L'Équipe have suggested the wage deal on offer to Dimitri Payet is a base salary of 2.5 million Euros per or around 48,000 Euros per week after tax. At today's exchange rate that works out around £35,000 per week although when tax is factored in, the gross wage could be as high as £67,000 per week allowing for £1.6m in income tax and £73,000 in National insurance payments. West Ham would also liable for £482,000 of Employers National Insurance on top of that per year. The French paper claim West Ham have offered Dimitri Payet a five year contract with the option to extend by another year. They further report he can bump up his salary to 3m Euros per season with appearance fees of 14,000 Euros or £10,000 per match. The 28 year old playmaker is due to lose £12,000 per week at Marseille after their failure to qualify for champions league. Payet is claimed to be on 4.2m Euros last season at Marseille dropping to around 3m Euros this coming season. L'Équipe claim Marseille must sell a player before Tuesday 30th June.
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Burke: "We'll be alright"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 24, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Reece Burke is delighted to be back in traininReeceburkeg after the short summer break and looking ahead to the Europa Cup. The teenage central defender told the official site: "We've only had a little break but I think that's good for us. Being back now rather than having a long period of time not getting the football in, it just feels the same. It doesn't feel like you've missed out on anything, so it's good to be back early. "I finished last season so quite well, so obviously I'm looking to crack on and pick up from where I left off. "This European campaign gives everyone a good opportunity. Especially myself, I'm looking forward to it, having not played in the competition before. "I've played against different countries with the England age groups, so I'm used to teams from different countries playing in different ways. I think we'll be alright."
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West Ham turning a corner in Marseille negotiations for Dimitri Payet
getfootballnewsfrance.com
According to this morning's edition of L'Équipe, West Ham United appear to be turning a corner in the positive direction in their pursuit of Ligue 1's 2014/15 season top assist maker and Marseille attacking midfielder Dimitri Payet.
West Ham have offered the player a five year contract with the option to extend for a 6th year. The player would earn €2.5m a net as a base salary and is guaranteed €15m net over the period of five years. He would earn an appearance fee worth €14,000 per appearance.
West Ham's offer of €15m stands on Marseille's table at the time of writing, with OM needing to sell a player before the 30th June in order to comply with the deal agreed with the French football financial watchdog the DNCG which requires Marseille to balance their books or face punishments including docked points or even an automatic relegation.
They had hoped to have tied up a deal to sell Giannelli Imbula by now, but Valencia pulled out of the race after signing Rodrigo Caio and Inter Milan are getting cold feet despite agreeing a €20m deal for the player in principle. While it was understood that their deal with Monaco for Geoffrey Kondogbia would not affect their pursuit of Giannelli Imbula, it would appear that they might be trying to get a reduced price for Imbula as they know of Marseille's financial situation. Southampton in recent hours have been in contact with the player, but no bid has been made. Arsenal have indirectly sounded out the player's entourage through another agent, while Tottenham have a keen interest in the player but have yet to lodge a formal bid.
As for Florian Thauvin, Newcastle United made a €12m offer for the player in May and an unnamed side has now made an offer worth around €20m for the player in recent days. Thauvin has confirmed to Marseille that he has no interest in leaving the club this summer and rejected Newcastle's advances in May.
Marseille President Vincent Labrune's problem is that the sale of Florian Thauvin instead of Dimitri Payet would please Marcelo Bielsa more, the manager who has of course yet to sign a contract extension, with his current Marseille deal expiring in 6 days. A Payet departure might affect Bielsa's future in a way which would see the Marseille project implode.
Dimitri Payet and Marcelo Bielsa have an extremely close bond, the latter seeing the player as a crucial part of the team for next season and Payet very interested in remaining at Marseille for another season to work with Bielsa again, provided that he is offered a reasonable contract extension. A meeting took place yesterday regarding an extension and while there was no immediate agreement made, Payet's intentions were clear, he wishes to remain with Marseille.
If anything, Marseille's approach to the contract extension negotiations were less exuberant than Payet's camp would have liked, which might suggest that Marseille are seriously considering selling the player. Marseille is a jigsaw puzzle, but who will go first?
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Danny Murphy explains why West Ham need to take Europa League seriously
HITC
Lewis Doe
Former England midfielder Danny Murphy has explained why he feels the Europa League is an important competition for West Ham. Former England midfielder Danny Murphy explained why he hopes West Ham take the Europa League seriously, when he appeared as a co-host on the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast Show for talkSPORT. The draw for the Europa League qualifying round has been made and the Hammers have been drawn against FC Lusitans, with the first leg taking place on July 2 which means a very early start to the club's season. Murphy explained on talkSPORT how he feels the Europa League could be beneficial for West Ham as they look to progress under manager Slaven Bilic over the next ten months. "I hope West Ham take it seriously because if you have a decent run in that competition, it gets everyone excited and it gets the fans on board and they've got a decent squad so they can cope with it," he said.
Careful approach to qualifying
A careful approach to qualifying from Bilic is important considering the importance of the Europa League for West Ham this season. The competition creates obvious benefits for the club such as extra revenue, a higher level of competition and the ability to boast qualification as an asset when the club goes after players in the transfer market. Slipping up in qualifying would also be a terrible way for Bilic to begin his career at the club, instantly testing his popularity with fans.
Momentum could be useful
The opposite effect is that if West Ham can really put FC Lusitans under some pressure and play well, it gives the team positive momentum moving forward. That's going to be useful heading into the start of the Premier League season because first up is a very difficult game against Arsenal, where Bilic will need all of his players to be on top of their games.
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West Ham transfer news: Slaven Bilic closing in on £12m Dimitri Payet signing
Evening Standard
KEN DYER
Published: 24 June 2015 Updated: 11:57, 24 June 2015
West Ham remain confident they will sign winger Dimitri Payet from Marseille for £12 million by the end of the week. Jack Sullivan, son of co-chairman David Sullivan, yesterday tweeted: "We hope to announce a very large eight-figure deal within five days." Although some reports suggested today that the deal had been agreed for the 28-year-old, a club source said: "We're getting close but nothing has been done yet." Payet, who has 14 senior caps for France, had been offered an improved deal to remain at Marseille but it is understood he and his family are keen to move. Midfielder Pedro Obiang has already signed for £4.5m from Italian Serie A club Sampdoria. Meanwhile, Stewart Downing looks like staying despite reported interest from Sunderland.
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IRONS IN ADVANCED TALKS FOR RIGHT-BACK
West Ham are said to be in advances talks with Bundesliga side Hoffenheim for the signing of Luis Advincula.
The right-back is a Peruvian international.
Michael Oliver
theironscircle.com
West Ham are said to be in advanced talks with Hoffenheim for the signing of right-back Luis Advincula, who spent last season on loan at Vitoria Setubal. Portuguese news outlet Record says that the Hammers, impressed by the player's performances at the Copa America this summer with Peru, have opened talks with the Bundesliga side over a possible transfer. The 25-year-old is made 27 appearances in all competitions on loan in Portugal last season, and the report claims that Advincula is set to leave as 'the chances of Advíncula return [to Vitoria Setubal] are practically nil'. Vitoria Setubal narrowly avoided relegation from the Primeira Liga last season, and Advincula is said to want to take the next step as a player and not return for a second loan spell despite their interest. Advincula has one more year left on his contract with Hoffenheim, who are eager to sell. With depth at fullback wearing thin for the Hammers, it's likely we'll see two new additions to the squad at that position, as Carl Jenkinson is set to re-join the club on another loan spell from Arsenal.
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Harry Redknapp: I had a bust up with Slaven Bilic at West Ham when Tottenham wanted him but I think he's a class act
Evening Standard
JOHN DILLON
Published: 24 June 2015 Updated: 11:12, 24 June 2015
Slaven Bilic has been given a head start in his new role as West Ham's manager because of the depth of the squad left to him by his predecessor, Sam Allardyce. That is the view of Harry Redknapp, who kick-started Croatian Bilic's special relationship with Upton Park by signing the elegant defender from Karlsruhe of Germany in 1996. Redknapp said: "I really like Slaven. He's really got something about him. He's confident and he's been on the big stage with Croatia – winning at Wembley in 2007. Those Croatian lads really are top drawer. They have real class about them. "It is a big job Slaven's got now and Sam has left him a decent squad. When they had Diafra Sakho and Enner Valencia going well last season, West Ham were flying.
"There is a real nucleus there . If they can get Carl Jenkinson from Arsenal as well, they will be strong. I like the left-back, Aaron Cresswell. Winston Reid recently signed a new contract. And a lot of people were very impressed by Cheikhou Kouyate last season, too."
West Ham start the season early with a Europa League tie against Andorran minnows FC Lusitans on July 2. They have already signed 23-year-old midfielder Pedro Ibiang from Sampdoria this summer. Redknapp recalls that centre-back Bilic "smoked like a trooper," even in his playing days – and the habit hasn't changed. He also recalls a bust-up when he prevented a move to Tottenham, although Bilic moved on to Everton in 1997 after making 48 appearances in claret-and blue. The stay was brief but Bilic has returned to Upton Park with his cult hero status among the supporters undimmed. Redknapp added: "He fell out with his club in Germany so he came to train with us. After one session, we'd seen enough. He looked great. Straight away, he was organising, talking and bossing people about. Class. "After a year Tottenham came in. He had a get out at £3m. But it said we had to want to sell as well. So we we had a bust up over it for a while. He ended up signing a new deal and then Everton came in with a £4.5m offer. "I've heard it said that he might bring back former players like John Hartson and Julian Dicks along with his own Croatian staff. "Its good to get former players back and around the place. I did it with Tim Sherwood and Les Ferdinand at Spurs. "And I know one thing - with a bench featuring, Slaven, John Hartson and Dicksy, there will only be one lot of winners if it comes to a bit of aggro."
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Report: West Brom will make Demba Ba their highest paid player ever
HITC
Che Thomas
The Senegalese forward is also reportedly being chased by former club West Ham. Former Chelsea, Newcastle and West Ham striker Demba Ba is being heavily linked with a switch back to the Premier League this summer, and West Brom are eager to steal in front of his other suitors by offering the 30-year-old the highest wages in their history, according to the Express and Star.
On top of that, they may well be prepared to break their transfer record in order to match the £10 million bid Shanghai Shenhua have already made for the Besiktas striker. The Mirror reported last week that the Hammers are also interested in Ba, with his Besiktas boss Slaven Bilic now in charge at Upton Park. It remains to be seen whether Bilic would agree to impact his transfer budget and wage budget for the player, but it is clear a forward is on their list of priorities considering Charlie Austin is also being pursued. Well, the forward had a fairly nomadic career in England, taking in three different clubs in five seasons, but he managed to find the net regularly, even scoring key goals when occupying a bit part role at Stamford Bridge. 43 league goals in 93 league matches is a very good ratio for any side looking to stregthen their attacking areas, and Ba followed that up with an outstanding season in Turkey where he scored 27 goals for Besiktas - his highest ever total in a single campaign and proof that he can be formidable if he is given the right service and regular playtime.
With the Baggies having to rely on Saido Berahino for large portions of last season, Ba would certainly be another quality addition up top, as doubts remain over the future of Victor Anichebe and Brown Ideye.
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Stewart Downing: Sunderland's £5m bid 'rejected by West Ham'
09:53, 24 JUNE 2015
BY DOMINIC SHAW
GazetteLive.co.uk
West Ham United have rebuffed a £5m offer from Sunderland for Stewart Downing, according to reports. New Sunderland boss Dick Advocaat identified the Boro-born flanker as a priority target this summer as he looks to strengthen his squad. The Dutchman, who extended his stay at the Stadium of Light after keeping the Black Cats in the Premier League last season, is believed to be ready to test West Ham's resolve further with an improved bid for the 31-year-old. Downing has two years left on his contract with the Hammers and is believed to earn in the region of £70,000 a week. The flanker impressed on loan at Sunderland early in his career, making seven appearances before heading back down the A19 to Boro and bursting into the first-team fold as a teenager. Despite an excellent season last time out, particularly in the first half of the campaign when he was employed in the hole behind the striker, new West Ham boss Slaven Bilic is believed to be ready to cash in on the gifted midfielder, who has been capped 35 times for England. The Hammers are reportedly closing in on a £17m move for Marseille wideman Dimitri Payet.
Reports that Boro were ready to go head-to-head with Sunderland in a battle for Downing's signature sparked excitement earlier this week. But, as the Gazette reported yesterday, it would take a bank busting package to bring him back to the Riverside. Downing is believed to be keen on a move back to his native North-East after spells at Aston Villa and Liverpool before he joined the Hammers.
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Can £10.5 million West Ham flop Matt Jarvis reignite his stuttering career under Slaven Bilic?
HITC
Expensive flop Matt Jarvis could get a new lease of life under the more attack-minded Slaven Bilic and rescue his West Ham United career. When Matt Jarvis was signed for £10.5 million from Wolverhapton Wanderers in 2012 to provide the ammunition for fellow new signing Andy Carroll, many saw it as a match made in heaven. But so far the ex-Gillingham man has been a major disappointment at Upton Park scoring just four times in 75 appearances over three years and rarely setting up Carroll or his fellow strikers for goals. Things started pretty well for the pacy winger under Sam Allardyce and the team initially utilised his speed to keep opposition defences on the back foot. But his form dipped along with his confidence and he has never recovered since, being marginalised to a bit-part role last season when he made just 11 appearances for the East Londoners, mostly as a sub. Whether it is the big price tag, the fact he is right footed and was being played on the left by Allardyce or just that he needed a run of games to rediscover his form, Jarvis has struggled badly at the Boleyn Ground. According to teammate Mark Noble it had nothing to do with a lack of effort, the midfielder revealing at the end of last season that 'no player works harder than Matt Jarvis at West Ham'. Jarvis was linked with moves to the likes of West Bromich Albion, Cardiff and Queens Park Rangers in January - as per the Daily Mail. He even had a late loan switch to Loftus Road scuppered by Premier League rules when Harry Redknapp tried to send Mauro Zarate back to West Ham. At 29-years-old, it is unlikely West Ham will be able to recoup anything like the money they paid for the one-time England international, given that he still has two years to run on his Hammers deal. So could that pave the way for him to reignite his career in East London where Bilic, known for his use of wingers and attacking style, will be needing a big squad given the extra games they will play as a result of their Europa League qualification? Speaking to West Ham's official website, Jarvis insists he is feeling positive after returning to pre-season training with his teammates this week ahead of the club's first Europa League match next Thursday.
"I am looking forward to playing under the new manager," he told whufc.com. "We will get to meet him this week and hopefully it will be very exciting. "I am looking to have a big season. I was a bit disappointed last year but hopefully I will be able to kick-start (my career) this season.
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Hammers speak out on 'Payet's signed' report
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 24, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Reports that West Ham have agreed a deal with Marseilles for Dimitri Payet have been knocked back by Boleyn sources this morning. The Daily Mail reported we had got our man at a fee of around £12 million but ClaretandHugh has been told by a top Irons source the deal is still in the balance although "we are getting closer. Our source said: "We are probably about 70 per cent towards concluding the deal but there's no way the deal's been done at this stage. "We are getting closer but to be perfectly honest with you, it's a bit like pulling teeth."
The Mail's story had claimed: West Ham have agreed a £12 million deal with Marseille for midfielder Dimitri Payet but have rejected a £5 million offer from Sunderland for Stewart Dowing ( reported here two days ago). It added: 'Payet was offered new terms by Marseille over the weekend in a bid to keep him at the club, but his family are keen on a move to London. The 28-year-old was due to take a big drop in wages owing to Marseille being out of the Champions League and the club's offer was an attempt to redress that.'
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Report: West Ham could join Newcastle in race to sign Georginio Wijnaldum
HITC
Olly Dawes
West Ham are reportedly considering a move for PSV Eindhoven star Georginio Wijnaldum. According to the Daily Mail, West Ham United could join Newcastle in the race to sign PSV Eindhoven playmaker Georginio Wijnaldum. Wijnaldum, 24, racked up 18 goals and five assists last season as PSV ended Ajax's dominance at the top of the Eredivisie, winning the title by a whopping 17 points. PSV have already felt the force of their success by losing winger Memphis Depay to Manchester United, and could now lose Wijnaldum too. The Daily Mail believe that Sunderland are set to lodge an £11m bid to land the Dutch international - but face stern competition from a host of Premier League rivals. The report states that Newcastle are ready to rival their North East counterparts, whilst the likes of Southampton, Sunderland and West Ham could also join the race to sign him, with the player reportedly keen to make the move to the Premier League - despite PSV qualifying for the Champions League.
Is Wijnaldum aiming too low?
Wijnaldum has proven himself as one of the top players in the Netherlands, and whilst many have questions over the validity of success in the Eredivisie. He could be playing in the Champions League next season, but instead he could be on his way to a mid-table Premier League club - which seems far too low for his ability. Wijnaldum should be aiming to join a top six side before looking at the likes of Sunderland and Newcastle, who narrowly avoided relegation to the Championship last season. Yet if any of those clubs can land Wijnaldum this summer, they will see him as a massive coup - and a sign of the Premier League's ever-growing pulling power.
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ExWHUemployee's first ClaretandHugh column
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 24, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
ExWHUemployee will need no introduction to those of you who regularly use Twitter. Ex has built-up a great reputation for bringing on the money inside information on all things West Ham United and today he joins ClaretandHugh. He will regularly be bringing top news and is another top signing for your top site. Welcome aboard Ex!
Follow Ex on Twitter at @ExWHUemployee
I am delighted to be writing my first guest column for Claret and Hugh and my first anywhere in what seems like ages.
Well the appointment of Bilic has came and gone and was a very long drawn out process. Talks with the new manager "unofficially" started in February when he was first identified as a potential candidate. Whilst these talks were obviously denied by all parties it is fair to say both sides knew of the mutual interest. The club did have some doubts about him and had other well documented candidates that they were considering, Emery, Moyes, Biesla and Rafa being the obvious ones.
Had Real Madrid not made their move we may well be sitting here with a very different situation on our hands. It is believed that even during the interview process with Bilic he became unhappy with some of the questions he was asked but now has the full backing of the board. The club are fully aware that they cannot have another Sam situation so I expect there to be a strong effort by everybody involved to give unstinting support for their new manager.
The backroom staff are all awaiting work permits which is why there hasn't been any formal announcements yet! Once they are all received then Slaven will start to work out which "ex players" he will add to the staff. John Hartson I am reliably informed is the front runner for the attacking coach with Steve Potts also likely to play a role. Chris Woods, the ex England goalkeeper, has obviously already been appointed.
Those that have been following my tweets will know that we have a good idea of the targets and players that we are after. Payet, is a tricky situation with one report this morning claiming he has signed at £12 million. The offer has certainly been made and a large down payment plus bonuses to the club and him involved. The club believe that he can be convinced. That may already be the case and we could hear officially later today.
I would be very surprised if Carl Jenkinson doesn't return to us on loan. Sunderland fans were very quick on twitter to tell me he had joined them and I had no sources but then we'd expect that.We shall see if this is the case when he returns from England under 21 duty.
We are also strongly after Alex Song for what appears to be a knocked down price. The problem is that there are a number of clubs that are after him as he is classified as "home grown" and clubs now need to fill a quota. Once more the club remain confident that he can be tied down to a deal. There are other players on the target list which I have tweeted about but none are close at this time.
I was quick to dismiss reports on social media that Stuart Downing was on his way to Middlesborough or Sunderland. There is no intention from the club to sell a player they believe can recapture the form he showed before Christmas. There are not likely to be many player departures but should acceptable offers come in for Jarvis, Maiga and Nolan these would be entertained.
O I like the new home kit and the away kit is equally as nice. It is the classic light blue strip with claret hoops! This should be introduced in time for our first European game for which I cant wait. It is brilliant that the season is starting so early for us and a chance for our young prospects to show their worth in the first few games.
I expect there to be a youthful side put out with some of the more experienced players who need games involved. Expect to see those who need a settling-in period or are returning from injury. I also reckon (although I do not know at this stage) that Randolph, Tomkins, O'Brien, Hendrie, Jarvis, Nolan, Almalfitano and Sakho will be some of the more experienced players who will feature.
Keep following Claret and Hugh or my twitter feed for regular updates on the club.
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Report: West Ham end interest in Loic Remy, Bilic backs Andy Carroll instead
HITC
Olly Dawes
West Ham have reportedly ended their interest in signing Loic Remy. According to the Daily Mirror, Slaven Bilic has pulled the plug on West Ham's interest in Chelsea striker Loic Remy - and The Telegraph believe he could now turn to Andy Carroll. Bilic has already overseen one signing in midfielder Pedro Obiang from Sampdoria, and has been heavily linked with a move to sign Remy. The French international striker played as a second choice behind Diego Costa for Chelsea last season, but The Guardian believe the 28-year-old could leave in search of first team football, with a place in France's Euro 2016 squad on the line. Ever since Bilic's arrival, Remy has been linked with a move to Upton Park, with the Daily Mail reporting that the striker was Bilic's first target. However, The Mirror now believe that Bilic has ended West Ham's interest in Remy in order to focus on other positions - and a report from The Telegraph states that the Croatian will look to give existing Hammers striker Andy Carroll a chance to shine despite an enquiry from former club Newcastle.
The right decision?
Bilic's decision not to pursue Remy could give Mauro Zarate another chance at West Ham, with only Diafra Sakho, Enner Valencia and the aforementioned Carroll able to play up front.
Those three forwards give Bilic a blend of athleticism, pace and aerial ability, giving him a number of possible combinations to use them in. Remy could be seen as being similar to Valencia given his pace, and with Carroll's game-changing ability in the air, this could be a smart move from Bilic - if Carroll can stay fit.
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IS IT TIME TO SELL STEWART DOWNING?
By Iain Dale 24 Jun 2015 at 07:48
West Ham Till I Die
The Stewart Downing rumour mill is in full swing with suggestions that he may be a target for Sunderland, or even his previous club Middlesbrough. I'm slightly torn on this one. When he's played in a hole behind the front two he can show some great form, but stick him out on the wing and he looks lost. And if Dimitri Payet does eventually arrive Downing will look surplus to requirements.
Or will he?
We could end up playing more than 60 matches this season if we do well in the Europa League and and any sort of run in either of the domestic cup competitions. Our midfield lineups will be crucial here and we will need two quality players for each position. In Downing and Payet we would have two quality players who can play either in central midfield or on the wings. If any wide player has to be sacrificed, surely it has to be Matt Jarvis, who has never really establsihed himself in the first team, or troubled the scorers. Sure, he has had the odd really good game, but has he shown that he is a £10 million player? No, he hasn't. I feel that we'd be lucky to recoup £3 million of that in today's transfer market. Downing, on the other hand, rediscovered his scoring boots last season and if we sold him we'd undoubtedly recoup most of the money we paid for him, thought to be around £6 million.
Payet, Amalfitano and Downing would make quite a tasty threesome for Slaven Bilic to choose from. I don't for one moment think we have seen the best of Amalfitano yet. Last season he never really had a run in the team, but in most of his appearances he really showed something. Again, he seems to be able to play anywhere across the front three.
There are also rumours that we may be in for Andros Townsend. I like him as a player and he has scored some superb goals for England, but is he worth the £15 million Spurs are apparently asking? Well, Roy Hodgson certainly seems to thinks so, but if we are paying £14 million for Payet I really can't see us signing Townsend as well.
So. Stewart Downing. Stick or twist?
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West Ham transfer front page news in France, offer difficult to refuse, £10.7m bid
Posted by SPORT WITNESS on June 24, 2015 at 5:37 in Sport Witness Football
It's not often we see West Ham United transfer news take over the front page of France's L'Equipe newspaper but that's the case on Wednesday as a move for Dimitri Payet really kicks off. The London club have been linked with Payet repeatedly both by the British and French media but things have accelerated and a deal may not be too far away.
Marseille's self harming austerity plan has already seen them lose some of their best players on free transfers over the past couple of summers and now they also need to raise cash. It's a really difficult situation and whilst some in charge at Marseille seem to be quite proud of their response to the club's financial problems, the planning has been appalling. The worst thing that can happen to a club in financial difficult is to lose valuable assets for nothing and this summer has already seen Andre Ayew and André-Pierre Gignac depart the club as their contracts ended.
Payet's wages recently automatically dropped because of where Marseille finished in the league and to remain with Marseille he'd wanted contract talks but the two sides can't come close to agreement. What has made it more difficult say L'Equipe is West Ham, and agent Willie McKay working on their behalf. An offer of €2.5m per year after tax has been made and that would be on a five year contract for the 28 year old attacking midfielder. West Ham have also increased their offer for Payet from €11m to €15m, which works out to be around £10.7m - they haven't had a response yet.
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'It's not true!' £10m Palace and West Ham target denies Monaco deal
06:00 24 June 2015 Jack Green
London 24
Roma striker Mattia Destro has denied claims that he has joined Monaco, opening the door for Crystal Palace and West Ham. R Reports in Italy have linked the Italian international with a move to the Premier League in the past week after AC Milan turned down the chance to sign him. After a year-long loan at the San Siro, Destro had an option in his contract to make his move permanent for €18m but the Rossoneri decided to look elsewhere for a new striker. Several Italian news outlets including La Gazzetta dello Sport reported that Monaco were closing in on a €14m (£10m) deal to sign the 24-year-old, but he has since taken to social media to deny those claims. "Many of you are asking about Monaco. Some claim I have already signed. It's not true!!! If there is something, you will know about it here," he wrote on his Twitter page. With his move to Monaco not yet finalised, Destro remains a target for both Crystal Palace and West Ham. Both sides are keen to add some firepower to their squads after they relied heavily on a limited number of attackers last season. Destro is the second player that both Palace and the Hammers have been linked with this summer. According to reports earlier this month they were set to do battle over PSG midfielder Yohan Cabaye, although speculation has gone quiet on that front.
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West Ham & West Brom target Demba Ba will only accept Premier League move
Posted by Emre Sarigul June 24, 2015
turkish-football.com
Besiktas striker Demba Ba will only consider leaving the club for the Premier League according to NTV Spor. Black Eagles vice-president Ahmet Nur Çebi recently revealed that the club would only consider selling Ba if his €14 million asked price is matched. Chinese giants Shanghai Shenhua are reported to have made a €14 million bid for the Senegalese international but Ba refused to enter into negotiations. Besiktas board member Ahmet Ürkmezgil confirmed that the club have received a bid matching their asking price for Ba. "Nothing has been agreed yet the Chinese side wants him for and have made us an offer of €14 million but nothing has been finalised as of yet," Ürkmezgil told Radyospor. Ba still has two-years left on his contract with Besiktas and scored a career high 27 goals in his first season at the club after joining from Chelsea last summer. The Senegalese international has stated that he would return to the Premier League but he has settled in well at Besiktas and head coach Senol Günes is keen on keeping him at the club. "The fans in Turkey are very passionate and create a great atmosphere but it is no secret that the standard of football is of a lower quality than in England," Ba told World Soccer. "The way I left Chelsea was not ideal but that's life. I am still young and I believe I have another big move left in my career. The Premier League interests me and I am keeping my options open." Ba does have interest from the Premier League with both West Ham and West Brom set to make a move for the experienced striker according to the Times.
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Darren Randolph on the possibility that West Ham should be aiming for
HITC
Lewis Doe
West Ham United goalkeeper Darren Randolph is looking forward to playing in Europe with the Hammers. New West Ham United goalkeeper Darren Randolph told West Ham TV why he feels the Europa League will be a brilliant experience for the club, suggesting the side should be aiming to win the competition. The Hammers learned who their opponents would be in the qualifying round for the competition earlier this week, with FC Lusitans standing between the East Londoners and a place in the Europa League group stage. If the club can qualify, Randolph holds no doubt over what it means for the Hammers as they go about looking for some success in Slaven Bilic's first season in charge. "I had a little taster at Motherwell for two seasons in the Europa League and I thought it was brilliant; getting to travel and play against different teams and getting those experiences," he told WHTV. "It's brilliant and it's just brilliant to be here with West Ham – The Champions League is definitely a possibility and something that we should look towards."
Europa League worries
There are reasons to be cautious for West Ham in relation to the Europa League such as the extensive travelling and the short turnaround time between matches. However, Randolph doesn't seem to feel that will be a problem, with the travelling something the club should be looking forward to rather than fearing. The worry with travelling is the fatigue which is created as a result and Bilic needs to work hard over the summer to increase the size of his squad to cope with the higher volume of matches. Getting a place in the Champions League for next season would be fantastic for the Hammers, but it won't be the club's main priority over the season. The main aim will be consolidation and improvement in the Premier League and if the club can go on a good run in the Europa League, the FA Cup or the League Cup, Bilic will take that as a bonus.
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Report: £12m West Ham agreement for Dmitri Payet claimed, but is deal not quite there yet?
HITC
Dan Coombs
West Ham have reportedly won over Marseille for target Dmitri Payet. The Mail claim West Ham United have agreed a deal for top transfer target Dmitri Payet. The report discussing the futures of Payet at Florian Thauvin claims the Hammers have managed to convince Marseille to accept a £12 million offer. The future of the player would therefore rest with Payet himself, who held talks with the Ligue 1 side over extending his contract. Always reported to be available at the right price despite West Ham's clear intent to sign him, the issue has been quite what the fee would be and whether the Hammers would pay up.
Why fans should be cautious
The reasons The Mail's report does not quite stack up are two-fold. Firstly The Guardian reported 24 hours earlier that the Hammers were set to submit a higher offer of £14 million. French newspaper L'Equipe also reported the same news, but suggested Marseille may still not be swayed to lose a player who was integral to their success last season, providing 16 assists.
GetFootballNews France reported late last night that a new report will be published in Wednesday's L'Equipe, confirming intensifying interest from West Ham, but insistent no deal is agreed.
Their latest update is perhaps encouraging for West Ham fans that they are close to signing Payet, but opposing the report in The Mail, it may not be quite there just yet.
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West Ham agree £12m fee for Marseille midfielder Dimitri Payet as Sunderland look to lure Stewart Downing away from London
By SIMON JONES FOR THE DAILY MAIL
PUBLISHED: 22:36, 23 June 2015 | UPDATED: 22:56, 23 June 2015
West Ham have agreed a £12million deal with Marseille for midfielder Dimitri Payet but have rejected a £5m offer from Sunderland for Stewart Downing. Payet was offered new terms by Marseille over the weekend in a bid to keep him at the club, but his family are keen on a move to London. The 28-year-old was due to take a big drop in wages owing to Marseille being out of the Champions League and the club's offer was an attempt to redress that. However, it appears West Ham have finally got their man after weeks of talks with the Ligue 1 side. West Ham are looking to bolster their squad this summer as try to juggle both Europa League and Premier League football this season. And the Hammers have been quick to reject a £5m offer for midfielder Downing from Premier League rivals Sunderland as they look to avoid another relegation scrap. Downing spent a spell on loan at the Stadium of Light in 2003 and Black Cats boss Dick Advocaat is keen on bringing him back.
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West Ham 'agree £12million fee with Marseille as Dimitri Payet edges closer to a transfer'
George Bellshaw for Metro.co.uk
Wednesday 24 Jun 2015 7:14 am
West Ham have agreed a £12million fee with Marseille as Dimitri Payet edges closer to a transfer. The Hammers were further boosted by the French international turning down a new deal at the Ligue 1 side over the weekend. The 28-year-old was unhappy with the terms offered by the club and his family want to move to London, according to the Mail. After weeks of talks with Marseille it looks as if West Ham have finally got their man following lengthy negotiations.
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WHUFC.com
Reece Burke is glad the Hammers have returned to action so early ahead of the 2015/16 season as it gives him the ideal opportunity to continue his positive momentum from last term.
The 18-year-old defender made his Barclays Premier League breakthrough in the closing weeks of 2014/15, filling in with both James Tomkins and James Collins injured. A UEFA Europa League tie against Andorra's FC Lusitans is now just over a week away, so Burke has his sights set firmly on that Boleyn Ground clash. "It's really good to be back on the training pitch," he confirmed. "The boys got back together on Monday, then we flew out to Ireland on Tuesday and are here for the next six days. "The legs were a little tired after that first session, but I felt fresh on Tuesday and am feeling good [for pre-season]. "We've only had a little break but I think that's good for us. Being back now rather than having a long period of time not getting the football in, it just feels the same. "It doesn't feel like you've missed out on anything, so it's good to be back early. "I finished last season so quite well, so obviously I'm looking to crack on and pick up from where I left off. "This European campaign gives everyone a good opportunity. Especially myself, I'm looking forward to it, having not played in the competition before. "I've played against different countries with the England age groups, so I'm used to teams from different countries playing in different ways. I think we'll be alright."
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Boleyn Insider
WHUFC.com
As the Club prepare to embark on their European adventure with the first qualifying round of the Europa League taking place next week I can reveal that West Ham supporters could have even more reason to be excited heading into the start of the season. There have been numerous reports suggesting the Club are ready to make a multi-million pound offer for one of the star performers in Europe. My understanding is that the Club are now confident of finalising a deal in the next 72 hours and that it will be the first eight figure signing of the summer. The Club are certainly showing their intent for next season and are determined to bring the best players to the Boleyn Ground as new manager Slaven Bilic prepares for a busy schedule in both domestic and European competition. West Ham have also been linked with a move for Inter Milan midfielder Zdravko Kuzmanovic who has also attracted interest from other Premier League clubs. But my sources have told me that the east London club were never in the market to sign the Serbia international. There have also been reports linking Roma striker Mattia Destro with a move to the Boleyn Ground but I believe that is just speculation and the Club will continue to work hard in their attempts to strengthen the squad. Stay tuned to whufc.com for any further developments.
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Sakho wants to be top goalscorer
WHUFC.com
West Ham United striker Diafra Sakho wants to make a big impression under new manager Slaven Bilic next season and hopes to get among the goals straight away in the Europa League next week. Sakho enjoyed a memorable first season in the Premier League scoring 12 goals but was forced to miss the final part of the campaign after he suffered a thigh injury during the 1-1 draw with Stoke back on 11 April. The Senegal forward has been working hard throughout the summer to regain full fitness and was able to join up with the squad for the first day of pre-season training this week, before flying out to Ireland for a training camp. With West Ham back in action on July 2 when they face FC Lusitans in the first qualifying round of the Europa League at the Boleyn Ground, Sakho says he cannot wait to get back playing again and hopes to be among the top scorers next season. Sakho said: "I am fit for the start of the season. I was given a programme to follow over the summer and I will be ready for the first game. "I enjoyed my first season in England and next season I would like to score 20 goals. "I am happy to be back at the club and see all the players and the new arrivals. I know we are coming back earlier than normal but I am pleased to be back in action. "I am really looking forward to playing under Slaven Bilic and excited to see what he will bring to the team. "It is great for the club to be back in Europe and it is one of our objectives. The players are excited to be playing in the Europa League."
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The hard work continues in Cork
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's training camp in Ireland continued on Wednesday with a full day of training. The squad were put through their paces in an intense session on the pitches in the morning, which included sharp ball work and 11v11 drills. After lunch, the players then moved onto the gym, where they could work on their strength and conditioning in the run-up to the UEFA Europa League first qualifying round tie against FC Lusitans. Hammers defender Doneil Henry takes us through the day… "For me, today was a day when I was on the field less and more about getting into my stride, and getting back into my sprinting form," he explained. "Then we went into the gym and I worked on strengthening my hamstring and getting back into regular form before slowly integrating myself into full training on a daily basis.
It's what pre-season's all about. Coming together as a team and getting the fitness in. We work with the coaches, find out their system of play and do the dirty stuff – digging in, getting deep and trying to win matches when the season starts."
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Labour calls for Olympic Stadium deal to be published
BBC.co.uk
Labour has called on the government to publish the full details of West Ham's deal to move into the Olympic Stadium "as a matter of urgency". In a debate about the Olympic legacy, shadow culture secretary Chris Bryant highlighted the cost of the conversion and called it a "fiasco". The cost of transforming the venue into a stadium ready for football has reached £272m. Conservative MP and London Mayor Boris Johnson pointed the finger at Labour. Of the £272m total transformation costs, £15m is being provided by West Ham United football club, who are occupying it from next season, with £1m coming from UK Athletics. Mr Bryant told MPs the total spend on the venue would reach £700m, more per spectator than Wembley stadium, and more over budget than the total cost of converting the 2002 Commonwealth Games venue for use by Manchester City. "This has the feel of a fiasco cooked up somewhere between the Mayor's Office, DCMS (Departure for Culture, Media and Sport) and the Treasury," he said. "Which is why, in the interests of transparency, I urge the government to publish the full details of West Ham's secret deal as a matter of urgency." Mr Johnson said "it was indeed" a mess that had been "cooked up", but said the former Labour mayor and then Labour government had been responsible. "It was the Treasury under Alistair Darling and Gordon Brown who decided to go ahead with a stadium that was completely unsuitable for the purpose," he added. Culture Secretary John Whittingdale said there were "good reasons" why full details of the arrangement with West Ham could not be published, saying things such as the terms of the rent should be confidential, as to publicise them could jeopardise future negotiations with possible tenants. The parties also clashed over the sporting legacy left by the 2012 games, with Labour claiming participation had dropped in the following years in many parts of the country. Mr Bryant accused the government of "an own goal, a dropped baton, a belly flop". Mr Whittingdale criticised his "synthetic outrage" and said the London games had left an "amazing legacy". "We were always clear that legacy was at the heart of our preparation" he said, saying strong progress had been made in terms of the regeneration of east London and increased sporting participation.
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Deal close but not complete - Payet agent
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 24th June 2015
By: Staff Writer
Marseille forward Dimitri Payet is on the verge of sealing an £11million move to West Ham, according to the player's agent. Jacques-Olivier Auguste revealed tonight that a deal that would take his client to the Premier League was close to being completed - although the 28-year-old is yet to sign on the dotted line. "It's almost done, but not 100 per cent," Auguste told Eurosport, before adding: "We are still a little hopeful that Marseille can make something happen on their end." That final comment tends to indicate that Payet and his team are hoping for L'OM to make the 15 times-capped French international a fresh offer which would keep him at the Stade Vélodrome.
However West Ham are understood to have already agreed a deal worth a shade under £11million for Payet, who has been offered a four-year contract worth £60,000 per week (David Hytner, Guardian). Payet, who has spent the last two seasons at Marseille is expected to arrive in London tomorrow morning (via Mauritius) for a medical.
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Shadow minister urges Government to reveal West Ham deal
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 24th June 2015
By: Staff Writer
Shadow Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Chris Bryant has expressed his concerns regarding the agreement allowing West Ham United to become tenants of the Olympic Stadium.
Former Orient Chairman Barry Hearn, a long-term opponent of West Ham's tenancy insisted yesterday that the full details of the deal - which have never been disclosed - should be released into the public domain. And now Bryant, who was appointed following Labour's General Election defeat last month has echoed Hearn's calls - whilst claiming the Olympic Stadium regeneration project is "over budget" with "the feel of a fiasco". "The Coalition said it would ensure the development of the Olympic Park after the Games," read a speech Bryant is due to give in the House of Commons this afternoon. "Here there are further legacy worries. "So far the cost of transforming the venue into a stadium ready for football has reached £272m, with £15m from West Ham, £1m from UK Athletics, £40m from Newham and £25 m from the Government. "That means the overall spend on the venue will now top £700m for the 54,000-seater arena - a lot more expensive per spectator than the £798m lavished on the 90,000-capacity Wembley."
Bryant then went on to question the "transparency" of the deal - and the costs, which far exceed those required to convert Manchester's Commonwealth Games stadium for the use of Manchester City. "The project is now over-budget by around £35m, which comes close to the total cost of converting the City of Manchester stadium after the 2002 Commonwealth Games," he added. "This has the feel of a fiasco cooked up somewhere between the Mayor London's Office, DCMS and the Treasury. Which is why, in the interests of transparency, I urge the government to publish the full details of West Ham's secret deal as a matter of urgency."
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David Gold fires back in latest OS row
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 24th June 2015
By: Staff Writer
David Gold has told former Leyton Orient chairman Barry Hearn to "get over it" following the latest row regarding the tenancy of the Olympic Stadium. Gold - speaking via Twitter this morning - also told Hearn to "move on", 24 hours after the former Orient supremo yet again questioned the validity of the agreement allowing West Ham to take occupancy of the Olympic Stadium.
David Gold ?@davidgold
Barry 'she's left you for a younger, richer man' get over it. Move on. dg
9:56 AM - 24 Jun 2015
The latest row began when Dagenham-born Hearn, whose long-running legal battle to prevent West Ham occupying the arena ended last summer when he sold the club to Italian businessman Francesco Becchetti, insisted that details of West Ham's occupation of the stadium should be made public. "The actual deal West Ham has got is still confidential and our current mayor of London is refusing to reveal details," he said. "As a taxpayer, I find that quite confusing. "When people spend my money, I rather like to know what it's been spent on. In the absence of that information we can only speculate that it is a deal so beneficial to West Ham that it becomes questionable in its own right."
West Ham's contribution to the £272million costs required to make the stadium fit for Premier League football is reported to be just £15million. However the club's annual ground rent - estimated to be in the region of £2million per year - has never been confirmed.
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Arsenal youngster on trial
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 24th June 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham have taken Arsenal's teenage defender George Dobson on trial. The web was awash with rumour and speculation yesterday afternoon when 17-year-old Dobson was pictured at Chadwell Heath training in West Ham's colours. And KUMB can reveal that the Hammers are hoping to tie up a deal for the central defender, who is set to leave the Emirates having decided that he is unlikely to make the first team squad in the near future. Dobson, who hails from Harold Wood made his debut for Arsenal's youth team in the 2012/13 season and has also featured sporadically at Under 21 level since. A central defender by trade, he has also featured as a defensive midfielder. Should he complete a move to West Ham, Dobson will become the second youngster to move from Arsenal in recent seasons, following the capture of 18-year-old Jordan Brown in summer 2013.
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West ham bid £14m for Marseille's Dimitri Payet
Last Updated: 22/06/15 12:26pm
SSN
West Ham have made a £14m bid for Marseille midfielder Dimitri Payet, according to Sky sources. The Londoners are leading the race to sign Payet, an attacking midfielder who has been capped by France and can also play out wide. West Ham have already signed Spain U21 midfielder Pedro Obiang and former Manchester City trainee Martin Samuelsen since appointing Slaven Bilic as manager.
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Payet arrives at 8.30am
Posted by Sean Whetstone on June 24, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Fresh reports say Dimitri Payet has boarded a British Airways flight bound for London Gatwick which is due to arrive tomorrow morning at 8.30am. Flight BA2062 is expected to touch down at Gatwick North terminal just before 8.30am on Thursday. His flight took off at 11.30pm local time in Mauritius around 8.30pm UK time on his 6050 mile journey to London. Canal Plus journalist Pierre Menes claims he spoke to Payet before boarding his flight claiming: "Dimitri called me from the airport of Mauritius. He arrives in London tomorrow morning for the medical visit. Then the denials…" Menes claims he will sign a four year deal for 15 million Euros.
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Players haven't met Slaven Bilic yet
Posted by Sean Whetstone on June 24, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Hammer Matty Jarvis spoke to TalkSport radio today from the training camp in Cork, Ireland as the West Ham squad prepare for the start of their Europa League campaign against Andorran minnows FC Lusitans in eight days time. He admitted the squad have yet to meet the new gaffer. "I haven't met [Slaven Bilic] yet," Jarvis told Talk Sport "He's coming out [to Ireland] on Friday." "It'll be good to meet him and see what his way of doing things is." Asked about his own targets Jarvis told the Drivetime programme: " A new manger's coming in, hopefully I'll get a chance to prove what I can do and then try to get in the team, stay in the team and play as many games as I possibly can, and for the club we need to progress on what we did last year after such a great start"
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Payet deal expected "in 48 hours"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 24, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
West Ham are expecting to tie up the 15 million Euro transfer of Dimitri Payet from Marseilles within the next 48 hours. As speculation intensifies on the social networks that the deal could be done as soon as this evening, top sources told Claret and Hugh: "Progress is being made and it should be done in 48 hours. " It's been a torturous journey for the Irons with the same source telling us earlier today that "it's like pulling teeth out." However, our understanding is that after Payet rejected a new deal with the French club, Marseilles came to an agreement on the fee with the Irons negotiaters and the player will now fly to London to agree personal terms.
However, we also understand that tough agent Willie Mackay (above) is looking after the player's interests and some fierce negotiating still needs to take place before the brilliant play maker is presented as the latest Irons signing. Mackay, however, has a track record of delivering French players to Premier League clubs and recently represented Andre Ayew in the talks that saw the player join Swansea.
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Report: Payet's Irons wage offer 'revealed'
Posted by Sean Whetstone on June 24, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
French paper L'Équipe have suggested the wage deal on offer to Dimitri Payet is a base salary of 2.5 million Euros per or around 48,000 Euros per week after tax. At today's exchange rate that works out around £35,000 per week although when tax is factored in, the gross wage could be as high as £67,000 per week allowing for £1.6m in income tax and £73,000 in National insurance payments. West Ham would also liable for £482,000 of Employers National Insurance on top of that per year. The French paper claim West Ham have offered Dimitri Payet a five year contract with the option to extend by another year. They further report he can bump up his salary to 3m Euros per season with appearance fees of 14,000 Euros or £10,000 per match. The 28 year old playmaker is due to lose £12,000 per week at Marseille after their failure to qualify for champions league. Payet is claimed to be on 4.2m Euros last season at Marseille dropping to around 3m Euros this coming season. L'Équipe claim Marseille must sell a player before Tuesday 30th June.
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Burke: "We'll be alright"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 24, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Reece Burke is delighted to be back in traininReeceburkeg after the short summer break and looking ahead to the Europa Cup. The teenage central defender told the official site: "We've only had a little break but I think that's good for us. Being back now rather than having a long period of time not getting the football in, it just feels the same. It doesn't feel like you've missed out on anything, so it's good to be back early. "I finished last season so quite well, so obviously I'm looking to crack on and pick up from where I left off. "This European campaign gives everyone a good opportunity. Especially myself, I'm looking forward to it, having not played in the competition before. "I've played against different countries with the England age groups, so I'm used to teams from different countries playing in different ways. I think we'll be alright."
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West Ham turning a corner in Marseille negotiations for Dimitri Payet
getfootballnewsfrance.com
According to this morning's edition of L'Équipe, West Ham United appear to be turning a corner in the positive direction in their pursuit of Ligue 1's 2014/15 season top assist maker and Marseille attacking midfielder Dimitri Payet.
West Ham have offered the player a five year contract with the option to extend for a 6th year. The player would earn €2.5m a net as a base salary and is guaranteed €15m net over the period of five years. He would earn an appearance fee worth €14,000 per appearance.
West Ham's offer of €15m stands on Marseille's table at the time of writing, with OM needing to sell a player before the 30th June in order to comply with the deal agreed with the French football financial watchdog the DNCG which requires Marseille to balance their books or face punishments including docked points or even an automatic relegation.
They had hoped to have tied up a deal to sell Giannelli Imbula by now, but Valencia pulled out of the race after signing Rodrigo Caio and Inter Milan are getting cold feet despite agreeing a €20m deal for the player in principle. While it was understood that their deal with Monaco for Geoffrey Kondogbia would not affect their pursuit of Giannelli Imbula, it would appear that they might be trying to get a reduced price for Imbula as they know of Marseille's financial situation. Southampton in recent hours have been in contact with the player, but no bid has been made. Arsenal have indirectly sounded out the player's entourage through another agent, while Tottenham have a keen interest in the player but have yet to lodge a formal bid.
As for Florian Thauvin, Newcastle United made a €12m offer for the player in May and an unnamed side has now made an offer worth around €20m for the player in recent days. Thauvin has confirmed to Marseille that he has no interest in leaving the club this summer and rejected Newcastle's advances in May.
Marseille President Vincent Labrune's problem is that the sale of Florian Thauvin instead of Dimitri Payet would please Marcelo Bielsa more, the manager who has of course yet to sign a contract extension, with his current Marseille deal expiring in 6 days. A Payet departure might affect Bielsa's future in a way which would see the Marseille project implode.
Dimitri Payet and Marcelo Bielsa have an extremely close bond, the latter seeing the player as a crucial part of the team for next season and Payet very interested in remaining at Marseille for another season to work with Bielsa again, provided that he is offered a reasonable contract extension. A meeting took place yesterday regarding an extension and while there was no immediate agreement made, Payet's intentions were clear, he wishes to remain with Marseille.
If anything, Marseille's approach to the contract extension negotiations were less exuberant than Payet's camp would have liked, which might suggest that Marseille are seriously considering selling the player. Marseille is a jigsaw puzzle, but who will go first?
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Danny Murphy explains why West Ham need to take Europa League seriously
HITC
Lewis Doe
Former England midfielder Danny Murphy has explained why he feels the Europa League is an important competition for West Ham. Former England midfielder Danny Murphy explained why he hopes West Ham take the Europa League seriously, when he appeared as a co-host on the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast Show for talkSPORT. The draw for the Europa League qualifying round has been made and the Hammers have been drawn against FC Lusitans, with the first leg taking place on July 2 which means a very early start to the club's season. Murphy explained on talkSPORT how he feels the Europa League could be beneficial for West Ham as they look to progress under manager Slaven Bilic over the next ten months. "I hope West Ham take it seriously because if you have a decent run in that competition, it gets everyone excited and it gets the fans on board and they've got a decent squad so they can cope with it," he said.
Careful approach to qualifying
A careful approach to qualifying from Bilic is important considering the importance of the Europa League for West Ham this season. The competition creates obvious benefits for the club such as extra revenue, a higher level of competition and the ability to boast qualification as an asset when the club goes after players in the transfer market. Slipping up in qualifying would also be a terrible way for Bilic to begin his career at the club, instantly testing his popularity with fans.
Momentum could be useful
The opposite effect is that if West Ham can really put FC Lusitans under some pressure and play well, it gives the team positive momentum moving forward. That's going to be useful heading into the start of the Premier League season because first up is a very difficult game against Arsenal, where Bilic will need all of his players to be on top of their games.
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West Ham transfer news: Slaven Bilic closing in on £12m Dimitri Payet signing
Evening Standard
KEN DYER
Published: 24 June 2015 Updated: 11:57, 24 June 2015
West Ham remain confident they will sign winger Dimitri Payet from Marseille for £12 million by the end of the week. Jack Sullivan, son of co-chairman David Sullivan, yesterday tweeted: "We hope to announce a very large eight-figure deal within five days." Although some reports suggested today that the deal had been agreed for the 28-year-old, a club source said: "We're getting close but nothing has been done yet." Payet, who has 14 senior caps for France, had been offered an improved deal to remain at Marseille but it is understood he and his family are keen to move. Midfielder Pedro Obiang has already signed for £4.5m from Italian Serie A club Sampdoria. Meanwhile, Stewart Downing looks like staying despite reported interest from Sunderland.
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IRONS IN ADVANCED TALKS FOR RIGHT-BACK
West Ham are said to be in advances talks with Bundesliga side Hoffenheim for the signing of Luis Advincula.
The right-back is a Peruvian international.
Michael Oliver
theironscircle.com
West Ham are said to be in advanced talks with Hoffenheim for the signing of right-back Luis Advincula, who spent last season on loan at Vitoria Setubal. Portuguese news outlet Record says that the Hammers, impressed by the player's performances at the Copa America this summer with Peru, have opened talks with the Bundesliga side over a possible transfer. The 25-year-old is made 27 appearances in all competitions on loan in Portugal last season, and the report claims that Advincula is set to leave as 'the chances of Advíncula return [to Vitoria Setubal] are practically nil'. Vitoria Setubal narrowly avoided relegation from the Primeira Liga last season, and Advincula is said to want to take the next step as a player and not return for a second loan spell despite their interest. Advincula has one more year left on his contract with Hoffenheim, who are eager to sell. With depth at fullback wearing thin for the Hammers, it's likely we'll see two new additions to the squad at that position, as Carl Jenkinson is set to re-join the club on another loan spell from Arsenal.
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Harry Redknapp: I had a bust up with Slaven Bilic at West Ham when Tottenham wanted him but I think he's a class act
Evening Standard
JOHN DILLON
Published: 24 June 2015 Updated: 11:12, 24 June 2015
Slaven Bilic has been given a head start in his new role as West Ham's manager because of the depth of the squad left to him by his predecessor, Sam Allardyce. That is the view of Harry Redknapp, who kick-started Croatian Bilic's special relationship with Upton Park by signing the elegant defender from Karlsruhe of Germany in 1996. Redknapp said: "I really like Slaven. He's really got something about him. He's confident and he's been on the big stage with Croatia – winning at Wembley in 2007. Those Croatian lads really are top drawer. They have real class about them. "It is a big job Slaven's got now and Sam has left him a decent squad. When they had Diafra Sakho and Enner Valencia going well last season, West Ham were flying.
"There is a real nucleus there . If they can get Carl Jenkinson from Arsenal as well, they will be strong. I like the left-back, Aaron Cresswell. Winston Reid recently signed a new contract. And a lot of people were very impressed by Cheikhou Kouyate last season, too."
West Ham start the season early with a Europa League tie against Andorran minnows FC Lusitans on July 2. They have already signed 23-year-old midfielder Pedro Ibiang from Sampdoria this summer. Redknapp recalls that centre-back Bilic "smoked like a trooper," even in his playing days – and the habit hasn't changed. He also recalls a bust-up when he prevented a move to Tottenham, although Bilic moved on to Everton in 1997 after making 48 appearances in claret-and blue. The stay was brief but Bilic has returned to Upton Park with his cult hero status among the supporters undimmed. Redknapp added: "He fell out with his club in Germany so he came to train with us. After one session, we'd seen enough. He looked great. Straight away, he was organising, talking and bossing people about. Class. "After a year Tottenham came in. He had a get out at £3m. But it said we had to want to sell as well. So we we had a bust up over it for a while. He ended up signing a new deal and then Everton came in with a £4.5m offer. "I've heard it said that he might bring back former players like John Hartson and Julian Dicks along with his own Croatian staff. "Its good to get former players back and around the place. I did it with Tim Sherwood and Les Ferdinand at Spurs. "And I know one thing - with a bench featuring, Slaven, John Hartson and Dicksy, there will only be one lot of winners if it comes to a bit of aggro."
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Report: West Brom will make Demba Ba their highest paid player ever
HITC
Che Thomas
The Senegalese forward is also reportedly being chased by former club West Ham. Former Chelsea, Newcastle and West Ham striker Demba Ba is being heavily linked with a switch back to the Premier League this summer, and West Brom are eager to steal in front of his other suitors by offering the 30-year-old the highest wages in their history, according to the Express and Star.
On top of that, they may well be prepared to break their transfer record in order to match the £10 million bid Shanghai Shenhua have already made for the Besiktas striker. The Mirror reported last week that the Hammers are also interested in Ba, with his Besiktas boss Slaven Bilic now in charge at Upton Park. It remains to be seen whether Bilic would agree to impact his transfer budget and wage budget for the player, but it is clear a forward is on their list of priorities considering Charlie Austin is also being pursued. Well, the forward had a fairly nomadic career in England, taking in three different clubs in five seasons, but he managed to find the net regularly, even scoring key goals when occupying a bit part role at Stamford Bridge. 43 league goals in 93 league matches is a very good ratio for any side looking to stregthen their attacking areas, and Ba followed that up with an outstanding season in Turkey where he scored 27 goals for Besiktas - his highest ever total in a single campaign and proof that he can be formidable if he is given the right service and regular playtime.
With the Baggies having to rely on Saido Berahino for large portions of last season, Ba would certainly be another quality addition up top, as doubts remain over the future of Victor Anichebe and Brown Ideye.
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Stewart Downing: Sunderland's £5m bid 'rejected by West Ham'
09:53, 24 JUNE 2015
BY DOMINIC SHAW
GazetteLive.co.uk
West Ham United have rebuffed a £5m offer from Sunderland for Stewart Downing, according to reports. New Sunderland boss Dick Advocaat identified the Boro-born flanker as a priority target this summer as he looks to strengthen his squad. The Dutchman, who extended his stay at the Stadium of Light after keeping the Black Cats in the Premier League last season, is believed to be ready to test West Ham's resolve further with an improved bid for the 31-year-old. Downing has two years left on his contract with the Hammers and is believed to earn in the region of £70,000 a week. The flanker impressed on loan at Sunderland early in his career, making seven appearances before heading back down the A19 to Boro and bursting into the first-team fold as a teenager. Despite an excellent season last time out, particularly in the first half of the campaign when he was employed in the hole behind the striker, new West Ham boss Slaven Bilic is believed to be ready to cash in on the gifted midfielder, who has been capped 35 times for England. The Hammers are reportedly closing in on a £17m move for Marseille wideman Dimitri Payet.
Reports that Boro were ready to go head-to-head with Sunderland in a battle for Downing's signature sparked excitement earlier this week. But, as the Gazette reported yesterday, it would take a bank busting package to bring him back to the Riverside. Downing is believed to be keen on a move back to his native North-East after spells at Aston Villa and Liverpool before he joined the Hammers.
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Can £10.5 million West Ham flop Matt Jarvis reignite his stuttering career under Slaven Bilic?
HITC
Expensive flop Matt Jarvis could get a new lease of life under the more attack-minded Slaven Bilic and rescue his West Ham United career. When Matt Jarvis was signed for £10.5 million from Wolverhapton Wanderers in 2012 to provide the ammunition for fellow new signing Andy Carroll, many saw it as a match made in heaven. But so far the ex-Gillingham man has been a major disappointment at Upton Park scoring just four times in 75 appearances over three years and rarely setting up Carroll or his fellow strikers for goals. Things started pretty well for the pacy winger under Sam Allardyce and the team initially utilised his speed to keep opposition defences on the back foot. But his form dipped along with his confidence and he has never recovered since, being marginalised to a bit-part role last season when he made just 11 appearances for the East Londoners, mostly as a sub. Whether it is the big price tag, the fact he is right footed and was being played on the left by Allardyce or just that he needed a run of games to rediscover his form, Jarvis has struggled badly at the Boleyn Ground. According to teammate Mark Noble it had nothing to do with a lack of effort, the midfielder revealing at the end of last season that 'no player works harder than Matt Jarvis at West Ham'. Jarvis was linked with moves to the likes of West Bromich Albion, Cardiff and Queens Park Rangers in January - as per the Daily Mail. He even had a late loan switch to Loftus Road scuppered by Premier League rules when Harry Redknapp tried to send Mauro Zarate back to West Ham. At 29-years-old, it is unlikely West Ham will be able to recoup anything like the money they paid for the one-time England international, given that he still has two years to run on his Hammers deal. So could that pave the way for him to reignite his career in East London where Bilic, known for his use of wingers and attacking style, will be needing a big squad given the extra games they will play as a result of their Europa League qualification? Speaking to West Ham's official website, Jarvis insists he is feeling positive after returning to pre-season training with his teammates this week ahead of the club's first Europa League match next Thursday.
"I am looking forward to playing under the new manager," he told whufc.com. "We will get to meet him this week and hopefully it will be very exciting. "I am looking to have a big season. I was a bit disappointed last year but hopefully I will be able to kick-start (my career) this season.
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Hammers speak out on 'Payet's signed' report
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 24, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
Reports that West Ham have agreed a deal with Marseilles for Dimitri Payet have been knocked back by Boleyn sources this morning. The Daily Mail reported we had got our man at a fee of around £12 million but ClaretandHugh has been told by a top Irons source the deal is still in the balance although "we are getting closer. Our source said: "We are probably about 70 per cent towards concluding the deal but there's no way the deal's been done at this stage. "We are getting closer but to be perfectly honest with you, it's a bit like pulling teeth."
The Mail's story had claimed: West Ham have agreed a £12 million deal with Marseille for midfielder Dimitri Payet but have rejected a £5 million offer from Sunderland for Stewart Dowing ( reported here two days ago). It added: 'Payet was offered new terms by Marseille over the weekend in a bid to keep him at the club, but his family are keen on a move to London. The 28-year-old was due to take a big drop in wages owing to Marseille being out of the Champions League and the club's offer was an attempt to redress that.'
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Report: West Ham could join Newcastle in race to sign Georginio Wijnaldum
HITC
Olly Dawes
West Ham are reportedly considering a move for PSV Eindhoven star Georginio Wijnaldum. According to the Daily Mail, West Ham United could join Newcastle in the race to sign PSV Eindhoven playmaker Georginio Wijnaldum. Wijnaldum, 24, racked up 18 goals and five assists last season as PSV ended Ajax's dominance at the top of the Eredivisie, winning the title by a whopping 17 points. PSV have already felt the force of their success by losing winger Memphis Depay to Manchester United, and could now lose Wijnaldum too. The Daily Mail believe that Sunderland are set to lodge an £11m bid to land the Dutch international - but face stern competition from a host of Premier League rivals. The report states that Newcastle are ready to rival their North East counterparts, whilst the likes of Southampton, Sunderland and West Ham could also join the race to sign him, with the player reportedly keen to make the move to the Premier League - despite PSV qualifying for the Champions League.
Is Wijnaldum aiming too low?
Wijnaldum has proven himself as one of the top players in the Netherlands, and whilst many have questions over the validity of success in the Eredivisie. He could be playing in the Champions League next season, but instead he could be on his way to a mid-table Premier League club - which seems far too low for his ability. Wijnaldum should be aiming to join a top six side before looking at the likes of Sunderland and Newcastle, who narrowly avoided relegation to the Championship last season. Yet if any of those clubs can land Wijnaldum this summer, they will see him as a massive coup - and a sign of the Premier League's ever-growing pulling power.
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ExWHUemployee's first ClaretandHugh column
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 24, 2015 in News, Whispers
C AND H
ExWHUemployee will need no introduction to those of you who regularly use Twitter. Ex has built-up a great reputation for bringing on the money inside information on all things West Ham United and today he joins ClaretandHugh. He will regularly be bringing top news and is another top signing for your top site. Welcome aboard Ex!
Follow Ex on Twitter at @ExWHUemployee
I am delighted to be writing my first guest column for Claret and Hugh and my first anywhere in what seems like ages.
Well the appointment of Bilic has came and gone and was a very long drawn out process. Talks with the new manager "unofficially" started in February when he was first identified as a potential candidate. Whilst these talks were obviously denied by all parties it is fair to say both sides knew of the mutual interest. The club did have some doubts about him and had other well documented candidates that they were considering, Emery, Moyes, Biesla and Rafa being the obvious ones.
Had Real Madrid not made their move we may well be sitting here with a very different situation on our hands. It is believed that even during the interview process with Bilic he became unhappy with some of the questions he was asked but now has the full backing of the board. The club are fully aware that they cannot have another Sam situation so I expect there to be a strong effort by everybody involved to give unstinting support for their new manager.
The backroom staff are all awaiting work permits which is why there hasn't been any formal announcements yet! Once they are all received then Slaven will start to work out which "ex players" he will add to the staff. John Hartson I am reliably informed is the front runner for the attacking coach with Steve Potts also likely to play a role. Chris Woods, the ex England goalkeeper, has obviously already been appointed.
Those that have been following my tweets will know that we have a good idea of the targets and players that we are after. Payet, is a tricky situation with one report this morning claiming he has signed at £12 million. The offer has certainly been made and a large down payment plus bonuses to the club and him involved. The club believe that he can be convinced. That may already be the case and we could hear officially later today.
I would be very surprised if Carl Jenkinson doesn't return to us on loan. Sunderland fans were very quick on twitter to tell me he had joined them and I had no sources but then we'd expect that.We shall see if this is the case when he returns from England under 21 duty.
We are also strongly after Alex Song for what appears to be a knocked down price. The problem is that there are a number of clubs that are after him as he is classified as "home grown" and clubs now need to fill a quota. Once more the club remain confident that he can be tied down to a deal. There are other players on the target list which I have tweeted about but none are close at this time.
I was quick to dismiss reports on social media that Stuart Downing was on his way to Middlesborough or Sunderland. There is no intention from the club to sell a player they believe can recapture the form he showed before Christmas. There are not likely to be many player departures but should acceptable offers come in for Jarvis, Maiga and Nolan these would be entertained.
O I like the new home kit and the away kit is equally as nice. It is the classic light blue strip with claret hoops! This should be introduced in time for our first European game for which I cant wait. It is brilliant that the season is starting so early for us and a chance for our young prospects to show their worth in the first few games.
I expect there to be a youthful side put out with some of the more experienced players who need games involved. Expect to see those who need a settling-in period or are returning from injury. I also reckon (although I do not know at this stage) that Randolph, Tomkins, O'Brien, Hendrie, Jarvis, Nolan, Almalfitano and Sakho will be some of the more experienced players who will feature.
Keep following Claret and Hugh or my twitter feed for regular updates on the club.
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Report: West Ham end interest in Loic Remy, Bilic backs Andy Carroll instead
HITC
Olly Dawes
West Ham have reportedly ended their interest in signing Loic Remy. According to the Daily Mirror, Slaven Bilic has pulled the plug on West Ham's interest in Chelsea striker Loic Remy - and The Telegraph believe he could now turn to Andy Carroll. Bilic has already overseen one signing in midfielder Pedro Obiang from Sampdoria, and has been heavily linked with a move to sign Remy. The French international striker played as a second choice behind Diego Costa for Chelsea last season, but The Guardian believe the 28-year-old could leave in search of first team football, with a place in France's Euro 2016 squad on the line. Ever since Bilic's arrival, Remy has been linked with a move to Upton Park, with the Daily Mail reporting that the striker was Bilic's first target. However, The Mirror now believe that Bilic has ended West Ham's interest in Remy in order to focus on other positions - and a report from The Telegraph states that the Croatian will look to give existing Hammers striker Andy Carroll a chance to shine despite an enquiry from former club Newcastle.
The right decision?
Bilic's decision not to pursue Remy could give Mauro Zarate another chance at West Ham, with only Diafra Sakho, Enner Valencia and the aforementioned Carroll able to play up front.
Those three forwards give Bilic a blend of athleticism, pace and aerial ability, giving him a number of possible combinations to use them in. Remy could be seen as being similar to Valencia given his pace, and with Carroll's game-changing ability in the air, this could be a smart move from Bilic - if Carroll can stay fit.
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IS IT TIME TO SELL STEWART DOWNING?
By Iain Dale 24 Jun 2015 at 07:48
West Ham Till I Die
The Stewart Downing rumour mill is in full swing with suggestions that he may be a target for Sunderland, or even his previous club Middlesbrough. I'm slightly torn on this one. When he's played in a hole behind the front two he can show some great form, but stick him out on the wing and he looks lost. And if Dimitri Payet does eventually arrive Downing will look surplus to requirements.
Or will he?
We could end up playing more than 60 matches this season if we do well in the Europa League and and any sort of run in either of the domestic cup competitions. Our midfield lineups will be crucial here and we will need two quality players for each position. In Downing and Payet we would have two quality players who can play either in central midfield or on the wings. If any wide player has to be sacrificed, surely it has to be Matt Jarvis, who has never really establsihed himself in the first team, or troubled the scorers. Sure, he has had the odd really good game, but has he shown that he is a £10 million player? No, he hasn't. I feel that we'd be lucky to recoup £3 million of that in today's transfer market. Downing, on the other hand, rediscovered his scoring boots last season and if we sold him we'd undoubtedly recoup most of the money we paid for him, thought to be around £6 million.
Payet, Amalfitano and Downing would make quite a tasty threesome for Slaven Bilic to choose from. I don't for one moment think we have seen the best of Amalfitano yet. Last season he never really had a run in the team, but in most of his appearances he really showed something. Again, he seems to be able to play anywhere across the front three.
There are also rumours that we may be in for Andros Townsend. I like him as a player and he has scored some superb goals for England, but is he worth the £15 million Spurs are apparently asking? Well, Roy Hodgson certainly seems to thinks so, but if we are paying £14 million for Payet I really can't see us signing Townsend as well.
So. Stewart Downing. Stick or twist?
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West Ham transfer front page news in France, offer difficult to refuse, £10.7m bid
Posted by SPORT WITNESS on June 24, 2015 at 5:37 in Sport Witness Football
It's not often we see West Ham United transfer news take over the front page of France's L'Equipe newspaper but that's the case on Wednesday as a move for Dimitri Payet really kicks off. The London club have been linked with Payet repeatedly both by the British and French media but things have accelerated and a deal may not be too far away.
Marseille's self harming austerity plan has already seen them lose some of their best players on free transfers over the past couple of summers and now they also need to raise cash. It's a really difficult situation and whilst some in charge at Marseille seem to be quite proud of their response to the club's financial problems, the planning has been appalling. The worst thing that can happen to a club in financial difficult is to lose valuable assets for nothing and this summer has already seen Andre Ayew and André-Pierre Gignac depart the club as their contracts ended.
Payet's wages recently automatically dropped because of where Marseille finished in the league and to remain with Marseille he'd wanted contract talks but the two sides can't come close to agreement. What has made it more difficult say L'Equipe is West Ham, and agent Willie McKay working on their behalf. An offer of €2.5m per year after tax has been made and that would be on a five year contract for the 28 year old attacking midfielder. West Ham have also increased their offer for Payet from €11m to €15m, which works out to be around £10.7m - they haven't had a response yet.
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'It's not true!' £10m Palace and West Ham target denies Monaco deal
06:00 24 June 2015 Jack Green
London 24
Roma striker Mattia Destro has denied claims that he has joined Monaco, opening the door for Crystal Palace and West Ham. R Reports in Italy have linked the Italian international with a move to the Premier League in the past week after AC Milan turned down the chance to sign him. After a year-long loan at the San Siro, Destro had an option in his contract to make his move permanent for €18m but the Rossoneri decided to look elsewhere for a new striker. Several Italian news outlets including La Gazzetta dello Sport reported that Monaco were closing in on a €14m (£10m) deal to sign the 24-year-old, but he has since taken to social media to deny those claims. "Many of you are asking about Monaco. Some claim I have already signed. It's not true!!! If there is something, you will know about it here," he wrote on his Twitter page. With his move to Monaco not yet finalised, Destro remains a target for both Crystal Palace and West Ham. Both sides are keen to add some firepower to their squads after they relied heavily on a limited number of attackers last season. Destro is the second player that both Palace and the Hammers have been linked with this summer. According to reports earlier this month they were set to do battle over PSG midfielder Yohan Cabaye, although speculation has gone quiet on that front.
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West Ham & West Brom target Demba Ba will only accept Premier League move
Posted by Emre Sarigul June 24, 2015
turkish-football.com
Besiktas striker Demba Ba will only consider leaving the club for the Premier League according to NTV Spor. Black Eagles vice-president Ahmet Nur Çebi recently revealed that the club would only consider selling Ba if his €14 million asked price is matched. Chinese giants Shanghai Shenhua are reported to have made a €14 million bid for the Senegalese international but Ba refused to enter into negotiations. Besiktas board member Ahmet Ürkmezgil confirmed that the club have received a bid matching their asking price for Ba. "Nothing has been agreed yet the Chinese side wants him for and have made us an offer of €14 million but nothing has been finalised as of yet," Ürkmezgil told Radyospor. Ba still has two-years left on his contract with Besiktas and scored a career high 27 goals in his first season at the club after joining from Chelsea last summer. The Senegalese international has stated that he would return to the Premier League but he has settled in well at Besiktas and head coach Senol Günes is keen on keeping him at the club. "The fans in Turkey are very passionate and create a great atmosphere but it is no secret that the standard of football is of a lower quality than in England," Ba told World Soccer. "The way I left Chelsea was not ideal but that's life. I am still young and I believe I have another big move left in my career. The Premier League interests me and I am keeping my options open." Ba does have interest from the Premier League with both West Ham and West Brom set to make a move for the experienced striker according to the Times.
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Darren Randolph on the possibility that West Ham should be aiming for
HITC
Lewis Doe
West Ham United goalkeeper Darren Randolph is looking forward to playing in Europe with the Hammers. New West Ham United goalkeeper Darren Randolph told West Ham TV why he feels the Europa League will be a brilliant experience for the club, suggesting the side should be aiming to win the competition. The Hammers learned who their opponents would be in the qualifying round for the competition earlier this week, with FC Lusitans standing between the East Londoners and a place in the Europa League group stage. If the club can qualify, Randolph holds no doubt over what it means for the Hammers as they go about looking for some success in Slaven Bilic's first season in charge. "I had a little taster at Motherwell for two seasons in the Europa League and I thought it was brilliant; getting to travel and play against different teams and getting those experiences," he told WHTV. "It's brilliant and it's just brilliant to be here with West Ham – The Champions League is definitely a possibility and something that we should look towards."
Europa League worries
There are reasons to be cautious for West Ham in relation to the Europa League such as the extensive travelling and the short turnaround time between matches. However, Randolph doesn't seem to feel that will be a problem, with the travelling something the club should be looking forward to rather than fearing. The worry with travelling is the fatigue which is created as a result and Bilic needs to work hard over the summer to increase the size of his squad to cope with the higher volume of matches. Getting a place in the Champions League for next season would be fantastic for the Hammers, but it won't be the club's main priority over the season. The main aim will be consolidation and improvement in the Premier League and if the club can go on a good run in the Europa League, the FA Cup or the League Cup, Bilic will take that as a bonus.
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Report: £12m West Ham agreement for Dmitri Payet claimed, but is deal not quite there yet?
HITC
Dan Coombs
West Ham have reportedly won over Marseille for target Dmitri Payet. The Mail claim West Ham United have agreed a deal for top transfer target Dmitri Payet. The report discussing the futures of Payet at Florian Thauvin claims the Hammers have managed to convince Marseille to accept a £12 million offer. The future of the player would therefore rest with Payet himself, who held talks with the Ligue 1 side over extending his contract. Always reported to be available at the right price despite West Ham's clear intent to sign him, the issue has been quite what the fee would be and whether the Hammers would pay up.
Why fans should be cautious
The reasons The Mail's report does not quite stack up are two-fold. Firstly The Guardian reported 24 hours earlier that the Hammers were set to submit a higher offer of £14 million. French newspaper L'Equipe also reported the same news, but suggested Marseille may still not be swayed to lose a player who was integral to their success last season, providing 16 assists.
GetFootballNews France reported late last night that a new report will be published in Wednesday's L'Equipe, confirming intensifying interest from West Ham, but insistent no deal is agreed.
Their latest update is perhaps encouraging for West Ham fans that they are close to signing Payet, but opposing the report in The Mail, it may not be quite there just yet.
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West Ham agree £12m fee for Marseille midfielder Dimitri Payet as Sunderland look to lure Stewart Downing away from London
By SIMON JONES FOR THE DAILY MAIL
PUBLISHED: 22:36, 23 June 2015 | UPDATED: 22:56, 23 June 2015
West Ham have agreed a £12million deal with Marseille for midfielder Dimitri Payet but have rejected a £5m offer from Sunderland for Stewart Downing. Payet was offered new terms by Marseille over the weekend in a bid to keep him at the club, but his family are keen on a move to London. The 28-year-old was due to take a big drop in wages owing to Marseille being out of the Champions League and the club's offer was an attempt to redress that. However, it appears West Ham have finally got their man after weeks of talks with the Ligue 1 side. West Ham are looking to bolster their squad this summer as try to juggle both Europa League and Premier League football this season. And the Hammers have been quick to reject a £5m offer for midfielder Downing from Premier League rivals Sunderland as they look to avoid another relegation scrap. Downing spent a spell on loan at the Stadium of Light in 2003 and Black Cats boss Dick Advocaat is keen on bringing him back.
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West Ham 'agree £12million fee with Marseille as Dimitri Payet edges closer to a transfer'
George Bellshaw for Metro.co.uk
Wednesday 24 Jun 2015 7:14 am
West Ham have agreed a £12million fee with Marseille as Dimitri Payet edges closer to a transfer. The Hammers were further boosted by the French international turning down a new deal at the Ligue 1 side over the weekend. The 28-year-old was unhappy with the terms offered by the club and his family want to move to London, according to the Mail. After weeks of talks with Marseille it looks as if West Ham have finally got their man following lengthy negotiations.
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