“I know for sure Roy Hodgson was interested” – Agent reveals Crystal Palace desire to sign Russia international

On Monday, Sky Sports reported that West Ham were trying to bring in Fedor Smolov from FK Krasnodar, with the Russian side were asking for around £12m, a fee the Hammers weren’t prepared to pay.

However, David Moyes side were only part of the queue of clubs after the Russia international, as Sandor Varga, a well-known agent over in Russia and Arsène Wenger friend, another club after a striker this January were also keen on the 27-year-old.

Speaking to Sport-Express in Russia, he said: “West Ham were after him. Crystal Palace too. I know for sure that Roy Hodgson was interested in Smolov.”

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Needing a backup to help out Christian Benteke to lead the line, the Eagles eventually turned their attention to Norwegian striker Alexander Sörloth, with a deal expected to be announced soon, as long as FC Midtjylland find a replacement.

Smolov is now expected to remain in Russia for the remainder of the season in order to guarantee his spot in his country’s squad for the World Cup in the summer.

This also means West Ham still haven’t got their striker, although a deal for Preston North End’s Jordan Hugill appears to be well underway.