West Ham United are reportedly interested in signing Manu Garcia, who could be allowed to leave Sporting Gijon on an initial loan deal this summer.
According to El Comercio, Manu Garcia could be allowed to leave Sporting Gijon in this window. West Ham United are among the clubs keen on the attacking midfielder, with a clause in his contract allowing him to leave on loan to join a club in a higher division.
Manu Garcia had a modest season in 2021/22 on loan with Alaves, who suffered relegation from La Liga after finishing at the bottom of the pile. Back at his parent club, Sporting Gijon, the attacking midfielder has completed his medical tests ahead of the pre-season. However, the Spaniard could look to depart if a bigger club approaches Sporting with an offer.
Garcia is keen on playing at the top level and continues to attract plenty of interest. Anderlecht, SC Braga, and West Ham United are looking to sign the Spanish attacking midfielder. The Belgian side have reportedly been in contact with Gijon over a move, but if West Ham come up with an offer, a return to England could become a tempting prospect for Garcia, who previously spent time at the Manchester City academy.
While Sporting Gijon are keen for Garcia to stay and help them push for promotion to La Liga, there is a clause in the 24-year-old’s contract that could turn things for the player. He can leave the La Liga 2 side on loan if a club from a higher division comes in with a proposal.
However, Garcia will have to sign a one-year extension to his deal which currently runs until 2025, as Sporting Gijon want to protect his future value. West Ham United are reportedly keen on the star as they seek a new attacking midfielder to add depth to their squad.
David Moyes’ primary target is Jesse Lingard, and the club are closing in on a free transfer for the former Manchester United star. However, the manager is keeping his eyes open for alternatives if a move fails to materialise, considering other clubs are keen on the England international.
Moreover, Lingard’s high salary demands could scupper a move to the London Stadium, which is why Moyes is keeping his options open. With Nikola Vlasic likely to be offloaded, Garcia could be seen as a viable alternative, although his numbers in the last season were unimpressive.
An initial loan move for Garcia could benefit West Ham, as they may decide on investing in him after gauging the player and his performances over a season. He could also be a cost-effective option allowing Moyes to focus the funds on more pressing needs such as a new striker.