Back in the summer transfer window, William Carvalho may have been the most mentioned Sporting player in that period, but there was still another one calling the English clubs’ attention.
Goalkeeper Rui Patrício was linked to several clubs, including the likes of West Ham, who reportedly even made a bid for him.
The news of a bid had come from England at the time, saying the Hammers tried to sign the goalie for €9m, something that came out as a joke in the Portuguese press, since he would never leave for such a low amount.
But the situation seems to be more favourable for a transfer now, as according to newspaper O Jogo today, Rui Patrício wants to leave Sporting at the end of the season.
There are no hard feelings between the captain and the club, but he feels like it’s time for him to try another challenge by moving to a new league.
Speaking of prices, that €9m is still less than half of what will be needed to take him, but it doesn’t mean it’s very far off either. O Jogo claims that €20m should be enough to take the player, with this being a huge discount from his €45m release clause.
But despite saying there are several clubs keeping eyes on him, only Napoli get a mention this time. West Ham, or even Watford, who were also linked a few months ago, aren’t remembered by the newspaper.
West Ham ended up signing Joe Hart from Manchester City on a loan deal last summer, but the player has recently lost his place under David Moyes, who is currently playing Adrian instead.
Is that a reason for the Hammers to go back for Patrício?
