Club Brugge talisman Hans Vanaken admits he has ‘mixed feelings’ after a potential £11 million move to Premier League outfit West Ham United failed to come to fruition, speaking to Het Nieuwsblad.
Two years ago, the rangy Belgium international rebuffed West Ham’s advances. This time, however, a move to the London Stadium did appeal to him.
At the age of 30, Vanaken is fully aware that the chance to make his mark on English soil might never come around again. Has the ship now sailed for good?
“It was difficult. There was a concrete offer from West Ham,” says the two-time Belgian Footballer of the Year, who won his fifth Jupiler League title last season.
“(Missing out on a move) is a mixed feeling. Club Brugge have twice declined bids from West Ham and asked for more. My position has always been that the three parties should find an agreement. That became more difficult by the day. West Ham decided not to continue.
“We have chosen to sign up here. And I’m happy about that, because saying goodbye would have been hard too.”
Hans Vanaken misses out on West Ham United move?
Vanaken finally put the speculation to bed this week, signing a new contract that could see a prolific attacking midfielder with over 100 goals in Club Brugge colours stick around for another five years. At least David Moyes, who held talks with Vanaken over the phone, can take some consolation in the shape of his new £51 million Brazil international Lucas Paqueta.
“It was the third time that West Ham showed interest,” Vanaken adds. “It may have felt like a last chance, especially to move to a league like the Premier League. With my new contract, there’s a good chance I’ll never leave.
“On the other hand, I have always said that I am very happy here. I would never leave Club for any team. Did Moyes call me personally? Yes, I heard him over the phone. He said he saw me as an ideal midfielder.”
West Ham offered £11 million. That fell well short of Brugge’s £17 million asking price, however.
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