At one point during the January transfer window, Marko Arnautovic moving to China seemed a matter of time. There were constant claims of a deal being on the verge of happening, and West Ham were preparing for life without their player.
All over Europe, the Hammers were linked with strikers, and it seemed their budget was around €30-40m. There were endless claims of talks and even rough offers being made, but West Ham couldn’t cross the line with their efforts.
The China move was then off, and the Austria international signed a new contract with the Premier League club. Hampered by injury, the 29 year old has only managed to play 22 minutes, against Crystal Palace, since the winter market closed.
Doing well in a recent vote among Austria fans for their best player, the West Ham star has been speaking to Kronen Zeitung.
Asked about the China move, he said: “I think it’s really obvious what the media attention has caused. Otherwise, I do not want to say much about it anymore. I’m a West Ham United player and I do my utmost to be successful with my team.”
He also had some nice comments for fans, both with the national team and those at West Ham: “That’s the most important, fans, especially those from the homeland, they give so much encouragement, it’s outstanding. It’s great that so many people are taking their time to vote.
“What matters to the striker in particular is his relationship with the little ones. Experiences with children are beautiful. I always want to give them pleasure. If I give shoes or a shirt, the boy or girl and I will not forget that day so fast.”
