River Plate defender Gonzalo Montiel may be on his way to Brazil with Palmeiras after once again missing out on a move to West Ham United, as reported by TYC.
For the third transfer window in succession, one of the game’s most promising left-backs failed to end up at the London Stadium. Although not for a lack of trying.
West Ham failed with a £9 million bid for Montiel 12 months ago; an offer described as ‘ridiculous’ by an irate River boss Marcelo Gallardo.
In May, Marcelo Carracedo, the 24-year-old’s former agent, admitted that the Hammers had come knocking again (Clarin).
Even West Ham midfielder Manuel Lanzini confirmed that the rumours were true, in conversation with Ole.
But, amid all the uncertainty caused by the pandemic, David Moyes’ side had second thoughts about triggering the hefty £18 million release clause in Montiel’s contract.
Flash forward to the present day and the 2018 Copa Libertadores winner is still awaiting his dream move to Europe.
West Ham expressed their interest once again, according to El Intransigente a few weeks ago. But, with the Premier League’s surprise packages prioritising additions at the other end of the pitch, Montiel fell by the wayside.
Now, with his contract expiring in June and the European window closed, the attack-minded full-back is in a rather awkward position.
Brazilian giants Palmeiras want to add Montiel to a team who defeated Santos in the Copa Libertadores final on Saturday.
River, you’d imagine, would jump at the chance to cash in on a player they will lose on a free next summer. The transfer window in Brazil will stay open until the end of March and the £7 million-rated Montiel has emerged as a top target.
But, according to TYC, his stance is clear. He wants to play in Europe – more than anything.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
