West Ham United have reportedly bowed out of the race to sign 23-year-old Georgian striker Georges Mikautadze from FC Metz.
According to a report by French outlet Le 10 Sport, Georges Mikautadze has been the subject of interest from West Ham United. The East London club submitted the highest offer to sign the 23-year-old from Ligue 1-relegated club FC Metz in the summer transfer window. However, AS Monaco or AS Roma will land him instead, with West Ham bowing out of the race.
Georges Mikautadze and his topsy-turvy career
Georges Mikautadze has struggled for stability since turning professional. Born in Lyon, he has chosen Georgia as his national side, making his international bow in March 2021. Meanwhile, he passed through the academies at FC Gerland, Lyon, and AS Saint-Priest before graduating from the youth division at FC Metz.
The 23-year-old was impressive for FC Metz, compelling Ajax to sign him last summer. However, Mikautadze managed only nine appearances for the Dutch giants before FC Metz re-signed him on loan in January. The youngster was a shining light for Les Grenats but could not prevent the club’s relegation from Ligue 1.
Mikautadze has completed a permanent move to FC Metz this month but will likely leave them in the summer transfer window after their relegation from Ligue 1. Meanwhile, the Georgian international was spectacular at UEFA Euro 2024, scoring thrice and providing an assist in four outings in the Crusaders’ valiant campaign. In addition, his exploits have alerted several well-known clubs, including West Ham United.
London calling?
West Ham United’s interest in Georges Mikautadze is understandable. The East London club also considered signing the FC Metz striker last summer, and they remain keen on signing him amid the advancing age of Michail Antonio and Danny Ings. In addition, the latter will likely return to Southampton in the summer transfer window.
The Hammers have submitted a bid to secure Georges Mikautadze’s services, and their offer is the highest among the player’s suitors. However, West Ham will not sign the 23-year-old Georgian international, with AS Monaco and AS Roma his likeliest destinations.
The two clubs can offer European football next season, which might have turned Mikautadze’s head. As for West Ham, it will be interesting to see who becomes the London club’s top striker target in the coming days.
