Just a few weeks ago, if one Lazio departure looked to be certain, other than the pre-arranged deal for Stefan de Vrij’s move to Inter Milan, it was the sale of Felipe Anderson.
West Ham have been interested in the Brazilian forward and negotiations between the two clubs have gone on for weeks, with Lazio increasing demands for the player over time. This is despite Felipe Anderson himself already agreeing terms with West Ham in a €3.5m a year deal.
Now, Corriere dello Sport are reporting that there is much distance in the negotiations still and that the patience of West Ham is wearing thin. Lazio are asking for a figure close to €50 million for the Brazilian, whose contract expires in 2020, whilst West Ham’s highest bid is €35 million (plus another €7 million in bonuses and a percentage of the next sale).
It is now suggested that, if West Ham lose interest, Felipe Anderson could in fact sign a new contract. However, he would need to be assured a place in the starting XI; which would mean Simone Inzaghi altering his tactical approach.
The thought is that Felipe Anderson’s replacement, whether Papu Gomez or Gelson Martins for example, will demand the same amount of game-time as Felipe Anderson; expecting to be a first team starter.
Now, the club must reassess how important they consider Felipe Anderson to be and whether or not West Ham’s bid matches his worth.
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