West Ham United failed with a bid to bring Lazaro to the Premier League and the former Flamengo winger has now sealed a £6 million move to La Liga newcomers Almeria instead, as reported by the club’s official website.
Despite their initial £4 million offer falling some way short of Flamengo’s expectations, there appeared to be some confidence that Lazaro would be wearing claret and blue by the time the clock struck 11pm on Thursday night.
So what happened?
Why did Almeria, the Saudi backed La Liga newcomers, seem to have such a clear run at one of Brazil’s most exciting young forwards on deadline day? Did West Ham feel that Lazaro, at just 20, was not worth the sort of money Flamengo wanted? Did Said Benrahma’s recent good form convince David Moyes to stick with him rather than bring in a replacement?
Or, with Lucas Paqueta arriving for a club-record £51 million, did West Ham simply feel they have enough attacking options for the new campaign?
West Ham United target Lazaro joins Almeria instead
According to O Dia, The Hammers switched tack after investing so much in fellow Brazilian Paqueta, trying to sign Lazaro on loan rather than increasing their lowball opening offer.
Flamengo, however, were only interested in permanent bids. After selling Rangers flop Umar Sadiq to Real Sociedad for £18 million, Almeria did what West Ham would not. They stumped up the £6 million required. Thus, taking Lazaro, a tricky, right-footed left winger in the Neymar mould, across the Atlantic.
“I appreciate everyone who was part of my development. I’ll be extremely grateful for every moment in this magical place, with amazing people,” Lazaro writes on Twitter; bidding farewell to a Flamengo side who gave him his break in senior football.
“I will take it with me all my life! Here I grew up, learned, evolved and matured. I have a huge affection for all of you. Flamengo, thank you so much for everything. I love you.”
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