Inter Milan defender Andrea Ranocchia will be allowed to leave the Italian club this month, according to the Corriere Dello Sport (via Football-Italia.net).
The Italian newspaper report that the 28 year old is deemed surplus to requirements at the Giuseppe Meazza and they have offered the centre back to other clubs in order to facilitate a move in the January transfer window.
Both West Ham and Hull City were linked with the former Italian international yesterday by Sky Sport Italia but Ranocchia seems to be keen on staying in Italy.
Serie A sides Bologna and Sassuolo are believed to be favourites for the defender, but the Corriere Dello Sport report that Bologna in particular have concerns about the player.
Ranocchia has only played nine games this season and was not a first team regular last season either which suggests a lack of match fitness. They are also worried that his wage demands could prove too much for them.
Whether West Ham could take advantage of this situation, it remains to be seen, but it is clear that the Hammers will seek to strengthen their backline this month after some poor defensive displays this campaign.
