West Ham United are reportedly closing in on signing Juventus midfielder Denis Zakaria in a €20 million deal.
Denis Zakaria has been linked with a return to the Premier League. And a report from Gazzetta dello Sport via Sport Witness claims that West Ham United have an agreement in principle to sign the Chelsea flop from Juventus.
The Swiss midfielder is valued at €20 million, and it seems that West Ham are prepared to sign him. The Hammers need to bring in midfield reinforcements after the departure of Declan Rice, and Zakaria could be a useful option.
Although the 26-year-old failed to showcase his qualities at Chelsea last season, he was a key player at the club level during his time in the Bundesliga. So he could be an important player for West Ham as well if he manages to regain that confidence and sharpness.
Zakaria will be determined to showcase his qualities in the Premier League. And the opportunity to join West Ham will be an attractive one for him. He barely had opportunities at Chelsea and will look to make his mark at West Ham.
The Hammers will be competing in the UEFA Europa League next season, and Zakaria would be able to experience European football with them. West Ham managed to win the UEFA Europa Conference League last season and will look to compete for more trophies in the coming seasons.
The Swiss international does not have a future at Juventus. So it makes sense for him to leave the Serie A club permanently. The €20 million move to West Ham would allow him to sort out his long-term future and concentrate on his football once again.
Meanwhile, Juventus are going through financial difficulties, and it would be ideal for them if they can fetch some money for the Chelsea flop. Interestingly, they also have a €20 million agreement each with AS Monaco and RB Leipzig.
West Ham certainly have the finances to get the deal done, especially after the departure of Declan Rice. Zakaria is not similar to Rice in terms of playing style. But he would add drive and quality in the middle of the park. West Ham should look to invest in a quality defensive midfielder as well.
