According to Fabrizio Romano, West Ham are now discussing personal terms with Arsenal target Filip Kostic.
What’s the story?
Well, the Hammers submitted a bid in the region of £13m for the Serbia international yesterday, and it seems they have received enough encouragement to proceed with personal terms.
Romano believe West Ham are now in discussions over a contract with Kostic, with talks “progressing well” between all parties as far as the reliable Italian journalist is concerned.
Arsenal are also said to be interested in the 29-year-old, although they have made nowhere near as much progress as the east Londoners.
David Moyes was rumoured to be impressed by Kostic as Eintracht Frankfurt knocked West Ham out of the Europa League at the semi-final stage last season.
The German outfit eventually went on to beat Rangers in the final, and Kostic was named Player of the Tournament by UEFA after scoring three goals and providing six assists in 11 games.
In total, he scored seven goals, and registered 15 assists, in 42 appearances from wing-back.
Tottenham are also said to be interested in Kostic, although after the Irons submitted a bid, the Eintracht Frankfurt No.10 is keen on a move to the London Stadium.
West Ham close to beating Arsenal to a gem
In our view, this would be the best business West Ham have done in years.
The Europa League is no small matter, as the likes of Barcelona, Borussia Dortmund, Napoli and others were all involved in UEFA’s second-rate tournament last season.
Therefore, the fact that Kostic was named Player of the Tournament should not be downplayed.
It is a special achievement, and in truth, we’re surprised that Champions League sides aren’t taking a look at this talented technician, who will surely have a transformative impact on West Ham if the deal goes through.
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