If you were wondering what Manolo Gabbiadini and Diafra Sakho had in common, it’s that Lazio are interested in them to help Ciro Immobile out this season, as well as replace Keita Baldé.
The top target for the job was Sunderland’s Fabio Borini, but since he decided to head to AC Milan instead, the Serie A side are having to look elsewhere to get their man.
On Monday, Il Messaggero stated Lazio’s owner, Claudio Lotito, was being urged to try for the Southampton striker, even if a positive outcome seemed unlikely, and Tuesday sees Gazzetta dello Sport hinting their attention might have turned to the West Ham striker.
Sakho is ‘on the way out’ at West Ham, according to the Italian claims, so it’s felt a move is likely this summer.
The striker, who started life at West Ham impressively, was plagued with back injuries all of last season, only making four appearances throughout the campaign, but that all seems to be behind him now.
Making two appearances in the league already, picking up an assist, the 27-year-old could still be Slaven Bilic’s plans, especially at a time when Andy Carroll is still out injured, but if an offer from Lazio were to arrive, few believe West Ham would stand in his way.
As for the player, the prospect of potentially playing Europa League football, at a club where there’s only one striker ahead of him rather than two (Carroll and Chicharito), might be too good to refuse.
Furthermore, his ability to play out wide when needed provides Simone Inzaghi with some versatility if he fancies playing two goalscorers in the team without sacrificing the width provided by Keita.
It makes sense, and with just one year left on his contract, we doubt West Ham will be asking for huge amounts.
More to follow, undoubtedly.
