WEST HAM RESUME TALKS WITH CHELSEA FOR DEFENDER EMERSON PALMIERI

According to Sky Sports, West Ham United have resumed talks with Chelsea to sign Emerson Palmieri. After a collapse in discussions recently, the Hammers are seemingly back in the chase, as David Moyes remains keen on a new left-back. Moyes is feeling the pressure of time running out in the transfer window as the West Ham United boss is yet to finalise his squad for the long season ahead. A new left-back is imperative, as it would allow the manager to shuffle his backline whenever necessary.

The Hammers are over-reliant on Aaron Cresswell to play the role, although the left-back is also a useful option in central defence. Moyes found that out last season when the club struggled to cope with defensive injuries and often used Cresswell centrally. That’s not the long-term plan for Moyes, who is seeking a cover for Cresswell as the Hammers compete on multiple fronts. Emerson Palmieri’s name emerged last week as the Hammers considered making a move for the Chelsea full-back. The London side also made an offer that somewhat came close to the player’s valuations, and talks were well advanced to bring the Italian international to West Ham.

However, the Hammers decided to walk away from the deal due to Emerson’s excessive wage demands. Moyes was expected to look at other targets, although there has been a twist in the chase, with the club now back in for the Italy international. Sky Sports report that West Ham have reopened talks with Chelsea and Emerson’s representatives to reach an agreement. It also mentions that the Hammers are looking at alternatives but consider the Italian their priority target.
Discussions are ongoing with Chelsea and the two clubs are reportedly close to agreeing on a fee, while the Hammers hope to agree on personal terms with the player. As things stand, this deal could be completed imminently, with Emerson’s arrival likely to add more quality and depth to the Hammers’ defensive department.