Juventus have indicated a price of £35 million for midfielder Weston McKennie, who is reportedly on West Ham United’s radars.
According to Football Insider, Juventus want at least £35 million from suitors for Weston McKennie. West Ham United are interested in the midfielder and could make a move for the USMNT international.
Weston McKennie’s future seemed bright when he became a key member of the Juventus side last season, playing around 45-games in all competitions. While the Old Lady could not clinch any major honours, the US international surely made an impact worthy enough for the club to pay Schalke over £18 million for his permanent transfer.
However, since the appointment of Massimiliano Allegri at the helm, McKennie is somewhat less favoured in the side. The Italian manager has seemingly preferred new arrival Manuel Locatelli, Rodrigo Bentacur or Adrien Rabiot in the middle and was open to letting the midfielder leave in the summer.
There was significant interest from Premier League sides in the summer, and Juventus were prepared to accept some attractive offers possibly. However, McKennie felt he needed to stay put and cement his place in the squad. So, he rejected any advances from clubs, but this stance might change.
Juventus are open to selling the 23-year-old as they have financial difficulties brought about by the pandemic. However, as football slowly comes to terms, the Turin club would like to generate funds to ease their burden. McKennie seemingly is one of those players they want to cash in amid serious interest.
West Ham United had taken up pole position to sign the midfielder, with McKennie himself reportedly keen on the move to London. However, David Moyes’ club have been quoted £35 million for the 23-year-old, roughly double what Juventus paid Schalke in the summer.
The Hammers are staring at the possibility of losing Declan Rice next summer after the England international rejected contract offers from the club. Despite speculation, he recently reiterated his commitment to the club, but as big English clubs circle, the chances of him departing the London stadium cannot be dismissed.
Apart from Rice, Mark Noble is set to hang up his boots at the end of the season. The veteran midfielder is coming to the end of his very successful and long career with the club. Hence, Moyes has identified McKennie as the ideal replacement for a central role.
West Ham’s recent performances have become an attractive factor for many players, and McKennie might be one of them. However, the club might negotiate terms to reduce the £35 million asking fees with Juventus. The ex-Schalke starlet could be a good signing for the club as he would give them his best years and add more power to their midfield unit.