West Ham face missing out on Leicester for Patrick Roberts… unless Manuel Pellegrini can work his magic.
West Ham face being beaten by Leicester City to the signature of Patrick Roberts – unless Manuel Pellegrini can swing a deal for his former player.
The Express reported last week that the two clubs were set to do battle for the winger.
Now it appears Leicester have a distinct advantage, due to ongoing negotiations with Manchester City over Riyad Mahrez.
Mahrez was desperate to move to City in January and was denied his move, and the champions renewing their interest in the winger is a sign they will not take no for an answer.
It places West Ham on the outside of negotiations and potentially kills off their hopes of signing Roberts, until you factor in the new manager at the London Stadium.
Ace in the pack?
West Ham have a lifeline in pursuit of the talented winger, thanks to the appointment of Manuel Pellegrini.
Pellegrini signed Roberts for Manchester City and later started him for the club in pre-season matches.
The Sun reported how Pellegrini previously raved: “If Patrick continues his development as a player he will be a very big player for us.”
Pellegrini was dismissed in favour of Pep Guardiola before he could see good on that promise, and the new City boss appears to have other ideas.
The new West Ham boss has a chance to try and help Roberts realise his potential, but it will be difficult with Leicester insistent on getting him as part of the Mahrez deal.
It will require Pellegrini trying to call in all the favours he can at his old club to try and get this one over the line.
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