West Ham United are understood to be considering a move for Barcelona defender Thomas Vermaelen as the Belgian star wants to return to England.
The 30-year-old has informed the Catalan giants that he wishes to move on this summer having failed to have the desired impact at the Nou Camp.
Through a combination of fitness troubles and lack of opportunities, the Belgian international has played in far less games than he would have hoped for.
Further, with Barca confirming the signing of Samuel Umtiti this summer, his chances will likely be further limited moving forward and in turn he is pushing for a fresh start elsewhere, as noted by The Sun.
Roma were believed to be keen on signing him but have seen their advances rejected by the La Liga champions, which has opened up the possibility of a Premier League side taking advantage.
That’s where West Ham and Slaven Bilic have come in, as they continue to look at ways to bolster their squad given their ambitious plans for the future. In addition, they’ll need to replace James Tomkins after he completed his move to Crystal Palace earlier this month.
Vermaelen’s injury woes could be a stumbling block to a move, along with Barca’s demands with regards to a suitable transfer fee.
However, the Hammers will have to move soon if they wish to sign him as Liverpool are also said to be monitoring his situation.