In November, West Ham United and Everton were linked with a transfer to sign Jonathan Ikone.
Calciomercato in Italy reported that both West Ham and the Toffees were keen on bringing the Lille winger to the Premier League.
Both Everton and the Irons could probably do with bolstering their ranks with an attacking player during the January transfer window.
And although they might, it isn’t going to be with Ikone in either case.
That’s because Fabrizio Romano has tweeted that the 23-year-old is on the brink of joining Fiorentina in Italy.
The Serie A outfit are set to announce Ikone as a new signing, killing West Ham and Everton’s hopes in the process.
Major blow
Well, this isn’t ideal for West Ham or Rafael Benitez’s outfit, it has to be said.
According to Romano, Ikone is moving for an initial £11.8 million which, in this day and age, is a nothing fee if we’re honest.
And if either the Hammers or Everton were genuinely interested, then it’s a big blow because they could’ve easily afforded the money.
It’s one thing if you miss out on a player because he’s too expensive, but when he’s within your budget and still escapes your grasp, it’s that bit more disappointing.
As mentioned, both Premier League outfits do need attacking support, too.
West Ham have scored three goals in their last five outings across all competitions – and two of those came in the Boxing Day defeat by Southampton.
As for Everton, well they’re 15th in the Premier League table and have netted only six goals in their past eight matches.
Ikone could’ve been a useful signing for one of them but, if Romano’s right, he’s one that got away.
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