West Ham United want to sign Hans Vanaken before the window closes and have already seen their €10m bid get rejected by Club Brugge.
Two days ago, reports in Belgium said the star is looking for an exit and an improved bid from the Hammers could be the ‘only remedy’ for the potential deal to take shape.
He played the full 90 minutes in his side’s 2-1 win over KV Kortrijk. After the tie, the 29-year-old spoke to the media and was asked about his future at the club, amid interest from West Ham.
“It’s very difficult to say the right things now. One thing is certain: I’ve had seven seasons here, just started my eighth and the respect between me and the club is very high. That has been proven again today. That tifo was fantastic, I actually have no words for it,” he said.
“But it is clear that there is interest – enough has been written about it in the meantime. This is the last chance for me to take a step. I’ve already thought about it a lot and I want to do that.”
On one hand, David Moyes’ side are pulling their sleeves to sign the attacking midfielder and on the other hand, everyone at Club Brugge are trying to convince him to stay.
The final decision will be in the Jupiler Pro League winners’ hands. Although they ruled out Vanaken’s exit earlier, the report says there is ‘still an opening’. That’s because Club Brugge are looking for his replacement in the market.
With West Ham keen to sign the player, the report says the departure of the Club Brugge captain is ‘no longer excluded’.
The Premier League side are warned clock is ticking and they will have to act fast, if they want to seal Vanaken’s signing.
