According to Fabrizio Romano, Giovanni Simeone is set to join Hellas Verona on a permanent deal, despite interest from Newcastle and West Ham.
What’s the story?
Well, it was TEAMtalk who revealed that West Ham tried to sign the Argentina international in January.
Elsewhere, Tutto Mercato Web claimed that Simeone was the subject of an enquiry from Newcastle.
Now, however, it seems the Premier League duo will miss out.
Romano believes Hellas Verona – who currently have Simeone on a season-long loan from Cagliari – will activate their option to buy the South American for just €12m (£10m).
In our view, that is a total bargain for a player who’s been on fire this term.
In 28 Serie A appearances this season, Simeone has scored 15 goals, while also providing four assists.
Newcastle and West Ham still have a chance
Crucially, Hellas Verona have an option to buy, not an obligation.
Therefore, even if they want to activate their £10m clause, Simeone can still have a say in what happens.
If he wants to experience the Premier League, the son of Diego Simeone can decide not to join the Serie A side.
Having said that, he seems to be thriving with Hellas Verona, so Newcastle and West Ham may have to do their best persuasion job.
In truth, with the money available to Premier League clubs, perhaps the 26-year-old could be swayed by a big salary offer.
Keep an eye on this saga – for just £10m, we’re sure the Magpies and the Hammers will be desperate to hijack Hellas Verona’s agreement.
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