According to the Gazzetta dello Sport, West Ham United and Crystal Palace are both eyeing a deal for Juventus midfielder Aaron Ramsey this summer.
The Wales international only joined the Italian champions last summer from Arsenal.
Ramsey, however, only started 11 Serie A games this past season and after a disappointing campaign, Juventus are now to downsize the squad under new manager Andrea Pirlo.
The 29-year-old is tipped for a return to the Premier League.
The Gazzetta dello Sport say West Ham and Palace are both keen. However, his whopping £400,000 per week wages pose a problem for any potential suitor.
Ramsey joined Juve on a free transfer last summer. The Italian club were happy to offer a hefty salary, and they now seek a fee in the region of £22 million for him.
West Ham see a new midfielder as a top area to strengthen this summer.
The Hammers have Mark Noble who turned 33, Jack Wilshere with fitness issues while Declan Rice’s long-term future is uncertain amid transfer speculation.
Manager David Moyes will know it’s a potential vulnerable spot for his side.
Palace, on the other hand, need to add more creativity to the side after scoring just 31 Premier League goals last season, with only relegated Norwich City netting fewer.
The Eagles can’t keep relying on Wilfried Zaha. A new striker is also a top priority, but the lack of chances created is a worry for Roy Hodgson’s side.
Ramsey has creativity in abundance while offering a goal threat as an attacking midfielder.
But unless he takes a wage cut, a permanent deal to either club is unlikely to happen.
West Ham’s record transfers
- Sebastien Haller
£45 million
- Felipe Anderson
£41.5 million
- Marko Arnautovic
£25 million
- Pablo Fornals
£24 million
- Issa Diop
£22 million
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