West Ham United are now facing potential headaches in their pursuit of Shakhtar Donetsk pair David Neres and Lassina Traore, according to TEAMtalk.
The Lowdown: Special transfer window
FIFA have announced a special transfer window following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. It permits individuals playing in either country to sign for another club overseas, as they have had their current contracts suspended. At the end of June, players would then return to their parent clubs in Russia or Ukraine.
As a result, Ukrainian giants Shakhtar Donetsk have received vast interest for a number of their stars, with many clubs looking to bolster their options for the remainder of the season on the cheap.
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The Latest: West Ham face game-time obstacle
According to TEAMtalk, West Ham are facing potential difficulties in their bid to sign Shakhtar duo David Neres and Lassina Traore.
Whilst the Hammers are interested in signing both players, it has been reported that the Donetsk club are worried that the Irons would lower their future fees through a lack of game-time, as David Moyes already has a settled squad.
Therefore, the Ukrainian outfit are more inclined to go with with the interest coming from the likes of Lyon, Marseille, Real Sociedad or Corinthians.
The Verdict: Still worth pursuing
Despite this potential hurdle to deals being done, the duo would be strong additions to Moyes’ squad. Neres only joined the Ukrainian club in January after a dip in form at Ajax led to a €16m (£13.4m) move. Due to the conflict in the country, he is yet to feature for his new employers.
However, the 25-year-old had previously thrived in the Netherlands, where he produced 47 goals and 41 assists in 180 appearances for the Dutch giants.
Also signing from Ajax, Traore joined Shakhtar last summer. Despite missing the last nine league fixtures due to a knee injury, the 21-year-old has had an impressive start to life in Ukraine, having netted six goals in seven appearances in the top flight.
Given the clinical nature of the two attackers, West Ham would bolster their forward ranks greatly if they were to persuade Shakhtar to do business. With no fee involved, this seems like too good of an opportunity to pass up for GSB, particularly given Moyes’ lack of depth in the final third of the pitch.
In other news: West Ham seemingly have an edge in another transfer pursuit
