Bundesliga club Eintracht Frankfurt may hijack West Ham United’s move for 21-year-old AS Monaco ace Soungoutou Magassa in the final days of the summer transfer window.
According to a report by French outlet Foot Mercato, Soungoutou Magassa has been the subject of interest from West Ham United. The Hammers are keen on reinforcing their first-team squad by signing a holding midfielder in the summer transfer window. So, the 21-year-old AS Monaco whizkid has been a target for the East London outfit.
Recent reports have claimed that the Frenchman is on the verge of joining West Ham United. However, a deal may not be straightforward, as Bundesliga outfit Eintracht Frankfurt may hijack the Premier League club’s move for Magassa. However, while West Ham will aim to seal a permanent move, the Eagles are keen on securing the youngster’s services on a loan-to-buy deal.
Soungoutou Magassa and his rapid rise
Soungoutou Magassa is the latest highly rated prospect to rise in prominence in France. The 21-year-old has established himself as one of the best young prospects in Ligue 1 since breaking into the first-team squad at AS Monaco. He was also part of the squad that won the silver medal at last year’s Paris Olympics.
The French midfield prospect has turned out over 50 times thus far for AS Monaco while chipping in with one goal and one assist. Meanwhile, Magassa’s progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several well-known clubs. West Ham United and Eintracht Frankfurt are among the prospective suitors vying for his signature in the final days of the summer transfer window.
What next?
West Ham United’s interest in Soungoutou Magassa is understandable. The East London outfit chose not to complete a permanent move for Carlos Soler, and they have loaned Edson Alvarez to Fenerbahce. Additionally, Guido Rodriguez faces an uncertain future at the London Stadium. So, West Ham must sign a holding midfielder, with Magassa emerging as a viable target.
However, the Hammers have been the subject of a hijack, with Eintracht Frankfurt aiming to scupper their move with a late approach. However, while West Ham will look to secure a permanent move for Magassa, the Bundesliga club will aim to complete a loan deal with a purchase obligation clause to land the 21-year-old Frenchman.
Recent reports also suggested a possible hijack from Atalanta. However, while Eintracht Frankfurt’s entry into the picture complicates matters, West Ham will aim to wrap up a deal soon after agreeing to a move worth €17 million plus €3 million in bonuses. It will be interesting to see what the future holds for the French midfielder.
