West Ham remain locked in talks with Celta Vigo over a big-money summer deal for striker Maxi Gomez, according to Sky Sports.
The broadcaster report that the Hammers are attempting to strike an agreement for the 22-year-old to join at the end of the season after lengthy talks surrounding a potential January deal.
Sky Sports claim that a summer arrival could end up costing West Ham less than the £45million release clause in Gomez’s contract, with the striker set to remain at Vigo and help them in their battle against La Liga relegation.
OPINION
A West Ham swoop for Gomez has been one of the most talked-about stories of the January transfer window, and that is set to continue into the coming weeks and months. The 22-year-old has obviously been identified as a key target for Manuel Pellegrini, who has likely accepted that a January deal is off the cards. The Chilean is clearly now attempting to secure the next-best thing – a summer arrival – with talks said to be ongoing between the two clubs. It is clear that Gomez will end up leaving Vigo this summer, with the Uruguay international having outgrown the club with his form over the past two seasons as many big names chase his signature. Barcelona have been linked with a move for the talented young forward, so it is no wonder that the Irons are looking to wrap up a summer deal now and avoid any potential competition when that window opens. Whether they will be successful is not clear – reports in Spain have suggested the deal is dead in the water – but we will find out soon enough.
