Atalanta have set a £43million price tag on their Colombian Striker Duvan Zapata amid interest from West Ham, according to Calcio Mercato.
The report states that the Hammers have been placed as favourites for the forward who has been in fine form this season scoring 26 goals in all competitions, but that West Ham will be challenged by Newcastle for Zapata’s signature, who has also been watched by Italian side Inter Milan.
Zapata, 28, has enjoyed his best season in his career so far and has spearheaded Atalanta’s push for European qualification in the Italian league.
The report also claims that both West Ham and Newcastle could struggle to pay the hefty price tag but Atalanta could be persuaded with add-ons or player trades on top of a fee.
OPINION
If available, West Ham must sign Duvan Zapata. He would be a great find for the Hammers and would sort out the attacking dilemma which has hit the club this season. The Colombian would be the ideal replacement for Arnautovic and the Austrian forward could even be used to sweeten any deal put forward to Atalanta. Not only would Zapata bring guarenteed goals, his work rate is something to be admired. Holding up the ball and his physicality would be key to bringing the attacking options behind him into any game. The price by itself is a bargain, Zapata is a striker who is challenging Cristiano Ronaldo for the top scorer accolade and that alone if enough to tell you he would be a great option for Manuel Pellegerini and West Ham who are crying out for a number nine who can not only score but influence games with ease. Duvan Zapata is that man.
