West Ham United are believed to be leading the race to sign Inter Milan defender Danilo D’Ambrosio, following reports from TMW that the German outfit Schalke have withdrawn their interest.
The 26-year is reportedly unsettled at Inter following the signing of Davide Santon, and may be considering a move outside of Serie A. Reports suggest that West Ham manager Slaven Bilic is looking to sign D’Ambrosio as backup to Arsenal loanee Carl Jenkinson, though with Europa experience the former Italian U21 would prove stiff competition for a starting berth.
West Hams recent foray into the Europa League has seen a flurry of transfer activity from the club in an attempt to add some much-needed depth. With Joey O’Brien the only source of cover for Jenkinson at right back, the signing of D’Ambrosio would be a huge capture for the Hammers.
The Italian made 23 league appearances for Inter last season and is comfortable both at full back or further up the field. The 2014/15 Europa League saw D’Ambrosio net an impressive 3 goals in 8 appearances when starting on the wing. This success in a wider role may indicate Bilic’s plans for the right back, perhaps challenging both Mauro Zarate and Carl Jenkinson for a place in the first team.
It is believed D’Ambrosio would be available for around £6-7million though no formal agreement has yet been made between the clubs.
