West Ham were seemingly close to completing the capture of Fiorentina central defender Nikola Milenkovic last week.
The 23-year-old Serbian international looked almost certain to be the second man through the arrivals door at the London Stadium last week.
However, the Hammers’ move for the ace hit the rocks and strong interest was forthcoming from Tottenham.
According to reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano on Twitter, neither London club is likely to land Milenkovic with the centre-back set to complete a full U-turn to remain in Florence.
Twitter: Confirmed. Nikola Milenkovic won’t sign for West Ham or Tottenham this summer – he’s expected to accept new contrac… https://t.co/WescldGr9Q (@FabrizioRomano)
The 28 times capped Serbia ace is expected to put pen to paper on a three-year deal despite admiration from the Premier League.
Last season, Milenkovic scored three times and added one assist in 34 Serie A outings.
READ WEST HAM VERDICT
Valued at £22.5million (Transfermarkt), the prospect of completing the signing at a bargain fee was an exciting proposition for West Ham fans everywhere.
As one deal falls another must resurface with less than two weeks until the transfer window closes and David Moyes adamant defensive reinforcements are necessary.
Chelsea man Kurt Zouma could be the next in line, with unlikely Liverpool hero Nat Phillips perhaps the backup option should all else fail.
