Boulaye Dia wants to stay at Serie A outfit Salernitana amid reported interest from Premier League duo Leeds United and West Ham in the £17 million-rated Senegal international, club chief Francesco Fimmano tells Radio Punto Nuovo.
Who can blame Dia, really, if he wishes to put down his roots on Italian soil?
Over the last 18 months, the France-born centre-forward has represented three different clubs in three different leagues; joining Salernitana on loan after his move from Reims to Villarreal fell flat.
And, after an impressive start to life at Serie A, Dia is expected to turn his short-term move into a permanent transfer despite interest from Leeds, Aston Villa and long-time admirers West Ham United (Tutto Salernitana).
Leeds, Aston Villa and West Ham target Boulaye Dia wants to stay in Serie A
“I certainly think there is the will to continue together,” explains Fimmano.
“Dia is a champion, who we have seen very little of yet. (Dia produced an) excellent performance in Qatar, which confirms his talents are of the highest level. And Salernitana keeps the players of the highest level.”
Dia scored in Senegal’s 3-1 triumph over host nation Qatar in the World Cup group-stages, before starting against Gareth Southgate’s England in the round of 16. He also has six goals in just 10 league starts since joining an ambitious Salernitana outfit over the summer.
“(Salernitana chief Morgan de Sanctis) didn’t just talk about money, like all the other sports directors do. He made him feel important,” Dia’s agent told TMW recently.
“He made him understand that, in Salerno, they really wanted him. And, in the end, Dia accepted (their offer). That’s how he is. Dia is a boy who has happiness as his top priority. And he’s happy in Salerno.”
Interestingly, Dia held talks with David Moyes’ West Ham side during the January transfer window nearly two years ago. The Hammers missed out then, however, and look set to do so again.
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