Reports from Spanish outlet El Mundo Deportivo, cited by HITC are suggesting that West Ham’s pursuit of Alaves defender Guillermo Maripan has hit a snag.
The reports suggest that negotiations are stalling over the fee commanded by the La Liga outfit.
West Ham have already been busy this summer, spending big on young Spanish playmaker Pablo Fornals, as well as acquiring the services of both Roberto Jimenez and David Martin to provide cover for Lukas Fabianski next season.
The Hammers have now, however, begun to face a multitude of setbacks in their transfer dealings, with the stagnation of a deal for Maripan coinciding with the transfer of long-term target Maxi Gomez to Valencia as well as Alexander Mitrovic’s decision to sign a new contract at Fulham, despite their relegation from the Premier League.
Boss Manuel Pellegrini has his sights firmly set upon his fellow countryman as a partner or even potential replacement for young Frenchman Issa Diop – who has attracted attention from Manchester United, but having already seen a £10 million bid rejected, Pellegrini looks unwilling to meet the 25-year-old’s £22 million release clause.
Maripan, who played in all six of Chile’s games at the Copa America as his side reached the semi-finals, is regarded as a commanding physical presence and in light of Angelo Ogbonna’s sketchy form and Winston Reid’s injury problems, he certainly offers an upgrade but one that will cost a hefty fee.
