At the age of 30, Angelo Ogbonna’s career is closer to its end than its start, and five appearances, of which just three were starts, in the Premier League, probably isn’t enough going into the festive period.
The Italy international has hardly played under Manuel Pellegrini, and it wouldn’t be a surprise if a move took place either in January or next summer.
That being said, a return to his home country could be a bit tricky, since he signed a new five year deal with the Hammers back in 2017, and the top clubs probably aren’t going to come knocking.
Take Bologna, for example, who, according to Corriere di Bologna, made an enquiry over the past few days regarding the West Ham defender’s situation.
The Italian newspaper state that despite making contact, it became clear the player’s demands, or at least his current financial situation, are far too expensive for a club of their stature.
This leaves Valencia, who are named as an interested party, in pole, a club who, despite a difficult season, would probably be able to afford some kind of loan deal, taking a chunk of Ogbonna’s wages on board.
It’s a difficult situation for the veteran defender, and one he’ll want to get himself out of at some stage.
Whether it’s in January remains to be seen.