According to Calciomercato, Antonin Barak is now set to stay at Hellas Verona despite Premier League interest from West Ham and Newcastle.
What’s the story?
Well, Calciomercato believe West Ham and Newcastle were interested in signing the 28-cap Czech Republic international.
However, after the 27-year-old scored a hat-trick against Sassuolo on Sunday, he now looks set to stay in Italy.
After full-time, Barak – who Hellas Verona value at €20m (£17m) – confirmed he was focused on the Serie A side and wasn’t thinking about a transfer.
Now, Calciomercato add that the forward is likely to see out the campaign in Italy, although a summer move cannot be ruled out.
After netting his treble, Barak now has eight goals and four assists in 18 Serie A appearances this season – very impressive numbers.
Newcastle should be wary of West Ham
If this transfer saga does gain a new lease of life in the summer, Newcastle – and others who are interested in Barak – should be wary of West Ham.
Why? Well, West Ham have made a habit of bringing Czech Republic internationals to east London in recent times.
David Moyes has moved to bring Tomas Soucek, Vladimir Coufal and Alex Kral to the London Stadium, all of whom seem to bond superbly.
In that respect, we feel Barak would be likely to choose West Ham as his next club, as three of his fellow countrymen are there.
Moving to the Premier League for the first time must be daunting, especially during a global pandemic, so the forward will presumably want people around who can help him settle in.
He will have that at West Ham, while he should also have opportunities to play in Europe as the Irons look well placed to qualify for the Europa League again – at least.
Keep an eye on this saga – only time will tell where Barak ends up.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
