Sport nationMichail Antonio’s West Ham United future is uncertain amid reports of a potential exit. The Jamaican international has been linked with a move away from the London Stadium, with Brazilian side Gremio and clubs in the MLS and Saudi Pro League reportedly interested in his services.
The news comes as West Ham United manager Julen Lopetegui looks to bolster his attacking options ahead of the new season. The Spaniard has already addressed the issues out wide with the signing of Luis Guilherme and has strengthened the keeping ranks with the addition of Wes Foderingham. However, his next priority appears to be adding a new centre-forward to his squad.
Reports suggest that Jhon Duran is the leading candidate to fill this role, with personal terms already agreed upon and a bid worth £35 million submitted to Aston Villa. If Duran were to join West Ham, it would likely limit Antonio’s opportunities and potentially push him towards a summer exit.
Antonio has been an excellent servant to West Ham, always giving his all whenever he has stepped foot on the pitch. However, if he wants to continue playing regular football, he may need to consider a move away from East London. With Danny Ings also eager to fight for his place under Lopetegui, the competition for places in the attacking third is set to increase.
Ings, who has not yet been the subject of a formal offer during the transfer window, is keen to remain at West Ham and prove himself under the new manager. However, if a new centre-forward is signed and Ings stays at the club, Antonio’s opportunities will be limited, and he may be forced to consider a move.
As talks continue over a move for Duran, it appears that Antonio could well be inadvertently forced out of East London in the process. The Jamaican international has been a key player for West Ham in recent seasons, but the arrival of a new centre-forward could spell the end of his time at the London Stadium.
In other West Ham news, the club has been linked with a move for Manchester United’s Scott McTominay, with Galatasaray also reportedly interested in the midfielder’s services. However, it remains to be seen whether West Ham will make a move for the Scottish international.
As the transfer window continues to unfold, West Ham fans will be keeping a close eye on developments regarding Antonio’s future. Will he remain at the London Stadium or will he be forced to look elsewhere
Sport nation
Amina Umar
