West Ham target Georginio Wijnaldum has instructed his agent to begin searching for a new club, following Newcastle’s relegation to the Championship.
Wijnaldum’s dramatic U-turn will come as a surprise to the Toon Army as recent reports had suggested the Dutch international would stay to aid the club’s fight for promotion next season.
Premier League duo Everton and West Ham are both reportedly monitoring Wijnaldum’s situation, but it is Serie A side AS Roma who currently lead the race for his signature.
Rafa Benitez is still in full control and will not be forced into selling his players cheaply this summer, having been given assurances for the club, but is aware that ‘some departures will be inevitable’.
The Chronicle claim Newcastle are looking for a price ‘in excess of £20million’, which may deter potential bidders.
West Ham could be tempted to step up their efforts to sign the 25-year-old, after being issued a clear hands-off warning by Besiktas, stating Canadian midfielder Atiba Hutchinson is not for sale.
