West Ham have been dealt a transfer blow as they look to replace Sebastien Haller, with the Ivorian joining Dutch champions Ajax on Friday.
As reported by Goal.com, former Fulham and Celtic striker Moussa Dembele has reportedly snubbed advances from the Irons, who are looking to bring in a replacement for Haller as soon as possible.
With the Ivorian’s departure confirmed this morning, Lyon’s Dembele was one name bubbling to the surface in terms of possible targets and Goal.com claimed that the Hammers had made contact over a potential move for him.
However, it now appears as though Dembele has no interest in joining the Irons at present, although the possibility of leaving Ligue 1 was not ruled out.
The 25-year-old, who has two-and-a-half years remaining on his contract, is also reportedly the subject of interest from La Liga giants Atletico Madrid. Diego Simeone’s side are reportedly proposing an initial loan deal with the option to buy in the summer for a fee in the region of €35m (£32m) including bonuses.
The former Fulham youngster has struggled for form this season, having only found the back of the net once in 16 appearances. Valued at £27m by Transfermarkt, he is currently recovering from a broken arm as he endures an ineffective, injury-plagued and campaign.
Read West Ham Verdict
It may well be that West Ham are unwilling to match the financial package on offer from Atletico for Dembele.
The French striker appears content with helping Lyon in their hunt for a Champions League finish and even a Ligue 1 title bid, but Atletico may offer some pull factors which West Ham cannot – primarily, regular participation in the Champions League.
