Italian outlet Calcio Atalanta claim Denmark international Joakim Maehle wants to join West Ham United this summer – despite being previously linked with a transfer to West Ham rivals Tottenham Hotspur.
Maehle, 25, has spent the last 18 months with Atalanta and has impressed – already clocking up 60 appearances. Showing incredible versatility as a left or right-back, or on either side of the midfield, he has had a hand in seven goals.
But it his form with Denmark that has really caught the eye – alongside Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg. Already capped 29 times, he starred at Euro 2020 and has an impressive nine goals for his country. One in three, for a defender.
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Reports earlier this summer said that Tottenham were keen on Maehle as they look for a new right wing-back. Spurs were preparing a fee of £15million. But now, he could end up at Tottenham’s London rivals West Ham.
That is because a report from Calcio Atalanta – a site based on all news regarding the Serie A club – say he wants a move to the London Stadium. Maehle has a contract at Atalanta until June 2025.
Maehle wants to join West Ham despite being linked with Tottenham
For either side, it is a brilliant signing. Maehle would instantly come into both of the club’s starting XI’s. However, Spurs are prioritising a move for Middlesbrough’s Djed Spence and that could be why he is favouring a West Ham move.
The Hammers remain in Europe, albeit the Conference League, but will be one of the favourites to win the competition. Vladimir Coufal is first choice, Ben Johnson his cover. Ryan Fredericks has left to join Bournemouth on a free.
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