Premier League outfit West Ham United have joined the race to sign an out-of-favour member of the midfield setup at Italian giants Juventus, according to reports.
The player in question? Denis Zakaria.
For those not aware, Swiss international Zakaria spent this past season on loan in England, with Chelsea.
After being deemed surplus to requirements by Juventus head coach Massimiliano Allegri, the former Borussia Monchengladbach standout was snapped up by the incoming Blues hierarchy, to add some much-needed depth to then-boss Thomas Tuchel’s squad.
Zakaria’s ensuing stint in west London, however, proved a major disappointment.
Though he was actually singled out for praise by the Chelsea faithful for his displays on a number of occasions, the 26-year-old was simply unable to make a telling impact, owing to a string of fitness issues.
Zakaria’s return to base with Juventus, however, is not expected to last long.
According to a whole host of sources, the midfielder remains on the outside looking in at the Allianz Stadium, with the Bianconeri brass keen to ship him off once more this summer.
And, as alluded to above, if the latest word stemming from the media is anything to go by, then Zakaria’s next club could too be based in London.
As per transfer expert Fabrizio Romano:
‘West Ham are among the clubs interested in signing Denis Zakaria.’
The Irons, it is understood, have contacted their counterparts at Juve, to get an idea of the kind of sum likely to be required to strike a deal.
This of course comes with Declan Rice widely expected to depart the London Stadium this summer, amid interest on the part of both Arsenal and Manchester City.
Understand West Ham are among clubs interested in signing Denis Zakaria. He’s back to Juventus after Chelsea loan. ⚒️ #WHUFC
West Ham asked for informations on conditions of the deal — but there are many clubs in the race.
Zakaria is not in Juventus plan for next season. pic.twitter.com/CyMoIhBY3L
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 22, 2023
Revealed: How much Juventus must pay to sign Thomas Partey from Arsenal
Major Arsenal blow: Manchester City ready to submit Declan Rice bid
