According to Antonio Giordano, Crystal Palace and West Ham have submitted bids for Napoli centre-back Nikola Maksimović.
What’s the story?
Well, Giordano – who works for Corriere dello Sport – made the claim while speaking on Marte Sport Live.
In quotes relayed by Area Napoli, the Italian said: “Napoli are definitely looking for one or two defenders, having left Maksimović. He has had offers from Real Betis, Sevilla, West Ham and Crystal Palace but has not decided.”
The 29-year-old made 27 appearances in all competitions for Napoli last season, helping them to fifth in Serie A.
Maksimović – who earns £50,000-a-week – has also won 25 caps for Serbia.
Do West Ham hold the advantage?
In our view, West Ham have an advantage over Crystal Palace.
The Hammers bid £14 million for the centre-back in 2020, so they have already done the groundwork on a move for Maksimović.
Additionally, the east Londoners can offer the £8.8 million man Europa League football for the 2021/22 campaign.
In Crystal Palace’s case, the south Londoners can’t even offer Maksimović the chance to speak to a manager yet.
Steve Parish still hasn’t found a replacement for Roy Hodgson.
West Ham and Crystal Palace’s major concern will – presumably – be Liverpool’s interest.
According to Sky Sports, Jürgen Klopp’s side enquired about Maksimović earlier this year.
Hopefully, the Reds are no longer interested, or West Ham and Crystal Palace would face a serious competitor for his signature.
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