West Ham are set to block Manuel Lanzini’s potential exit from London in January amid interest from Leeds United and Aston Villa.
A recent report from TeamTalk has offered an update on the future of Manuel Lanzini. It appears the playmaker is keen on leaving West Ham in January after struggling with a lack of game-time under David Moyes. His desire to leave the club had also put clubs like Aston Villa and Leeds United on red alert.
A member of the West Ham side since 2016, Lanzini has had a difficult few years at West Ham. Since the start of last season, the playmaker has earned only eight starts in the Premier League, only three of which have come in the new season. It appears he has fallen behind Jarrod Bowen, Pablo Fornals and Said Benrahma in the pecking order.
The Argentine has also had difficulties tuning into Moyes’ tactical philosophy, thus leading to speculations over his long-term future at the club. Leeds United, for one, are among the clubs interested in securing his services in January.
Marcelo Bielsa’s men, after all, are desperate for reinforcements in the creative department due to the struggles of Rodrigo and Mateusz Klich. The Whites have been linked with a move for several playmakers across Europe, including Juventus star Aaron Ramsey, but Lanzini could be a cost-effective and, perhaps, a safer alternative.
Another club linked with a move for Lanzini are Aston Villa. The Villans did bring in notable quality in the summer transfer window, but it appears Steven Gerrard is eyeing for more reinforcements, with Lanzini fitting the bill due to his experience in English football.
In addition to Aston Villa and Leeds United, the Argentine international has also emerged as a target for Newcastle United. The Magpies are indeed looking for Premier League players who can aid their survival campaign during the second half of the season.
However, the report adds that West Ham have made a U-turn regarding their decision over Lanzini’s future. While the Hammers were initially willing to sanction an exit for the midfielder, they are now keen on blocking his potential departure. It seems the Londoners have no intention of selling their star player to direct rivals, potentially forcing the interested parties to look elsewhere.