Edin Dzeko has reportedly rejected the chance to sign for West Ham this summer, according to reports in Italy.
The Bosnian forward appears destined to leave Roma at the end of the campaign, and had been pegged for a return to the Premier League,.
A former Premier League title winner with Manchester City, Sky Sports had reported a few days ago that the 33-year old could once again link up with former City manager Manuel Pellegrini at the London Stadium, after he was offered to West Ham.
However, according to Calciomercato who cite La Gazzetta dello Sport, Dzeko isn’t willing to sign for the Hammers this summer, despite being ready to leave the Italian capital.
The report claims that Dzeko wants to remain in the Serie A, specifically with Inter Milan being his main preference, making a Premier League return appear very unlikely.
Reasons Edin Dzeko NOT signing for West Ham is a good thing
Age
Edin Dzeko’s time in Italy has been fruitful, and he hasn’t been shy of a goal, but his age suggests that could soon cease to be the case.
At 33-years old, West Ham could look for younger and sharper options.
Style
Despite being a prolific goalscorer, Dzeko has operated as a target-man throughout his career.
While West Ham’s interest in Dzeko comes down to his record in front of goal, realistically he doesn’t fit into the style of play that the club, and especially fans, are keen to see implement long-term at the London Stadium.
Youth restrictions
West Ham undoubtedly need more firepower in the forward department, and to suggest they don’t sign a striker would be silly.
However, with young talent at the club, it does appear counter-intuitive to sign someone on the other end of the age spectrum, which could potentially stifle burgeoning talent.
Cost
So the touted transfer fee would be around £12million, which in today’s market is relatively miniscule.
However, Dzeko’s wage demands would likely be far costlier than most of the club’s targets, and to once again link this factor to another, Dzeko’s age and limited prospects long-term make even the smaller fee seem unjust.