West Ham United were being heavily linked with the free transfer signing of former Manchester City star Yaya Toure.
According to The Daily Mail West Ham were interested in signing Toure, who played under new Hammers boss Manuel Pellegrini at City.
In his pomp Toure would have been a major coup for West Ham but barely featured for the Blues after Pep Guardiola’s arrival at the Etihad and turned 35 last month.
Ironically his only match action for several months came in the shape of his participation in the recent Soccer Aid charity game.
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The reported interest has divided West Ham fans, many who feel the Ivory Coast legend would still be an upgrade on their current options despite his advancing years.
But some supporters feel West Ham – who also have ageing but popular defender Pablo Zabaleta on their books – are becoming ‘The Manchester City retirement village’.
West Ham have been linked with a host of midfielders including Javier Pastore, Jack Wilshere, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Jean-Michael Seri of late, as reported by the likes of Football London.
Pastore has since moved to Roma and doubts have been cast over moves for Wilshere over injury concerns and the player’s wages (as reported by The Mirror) and Loftus-Cheek with Chelsea keen to keep hold of the England star (as reported by The Guardian).
And now Toure has suggested on beIN Sports he plans to announce his new ‘top level’ club in the coming days.
“I want one or two or more years at a high level first,” Toure said when discussing his future as a guest on beIN Sports’ World Cup coverage.
“After, I want to show to the people my dedication to football. I don’t see myself anywhere else than football.
“In a few days everything will be a little clearer.”
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