Norwich City star Gabriel Sara has played down reports linking him with a move to Premier League outfit West Ham United, telling the Pink ‘Un that he knows nothing about the speculation.
After a sluggish start to life at Carrow Road, the £11 million Brazilian is starting to perform, well, like an £11 million Brazilian.
After scoring a stunning volley in Norwich’s recent 3-2 win at play-off rivals Millwall, Sara was at it again during last week’s 1-1 draw at Huddersfield Town. Another sumptuous finish, this time with his supposed ‘weaker’ right foot.
Enigmatic, elegant, strutting his stuff in that yellow and green kit. It’s just like watching Brazil.
According to The Mirror (12th March, page 71), Sara’s impressive recent form has caught the eye of Atletico Madrid, RB Leipzig, and David Moyes’ West Ham, amongst others.
But, with Norwich’s promotion prospects still very much alive despite successive draws, the summer signing from Sao Paulo is refusing to let any speculation distract him from the task at hand.
West Ham United like Gabriel Sara of Norwich City
“I want to live in the present,” Sara explains. “I don’t know anything about these reports, actually. I’m only thinking about Norwich and getting this promotion. That is my focus.
“I am feeling so confident and like I’m adapting to this league. Every game, I am feeling better. I’m learning to fight for the ball, how to deal with the press and tactically. The quality on the pitch is making me better, and my team are making me a better player.”
Championship rivals West Brom were also keen on Sara before Norwich agreed a deal which saw them pay £6 million up front. The stylish attacking midfielder now has six goals and four assists during his debut season at Carrow Road; most of those coming since the turn of the year.
“Everyone can see his ability,” says Norwich team-mate Kenny McLean (Evening News 24). “But he is now controlling games. He’s everywhere off the ball.
“That was a big thing when the new manager (David Wagner) came in. He was really drumming that into him to be more aggressive, get against people and he is doing that.
“It was just consistency with him. For me, right now, he is the full package.”
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