Over the past year or so, we have seen a number of sporadic stories suggesting that West Ham held an interest in Marseille’s Morgan Sanson.
There’s a reason behind that, which is the fact the player has been doing well with the Ligue 1 side, especially shining this year since André Villas-Boas took over.
In fact, there was even a claim in early January that the Hammers had made a bid for the midfielder, although the exact amount wasn’t revealed.
Marseille’s stance was explained to be that they would refuse anything below €35m, but an offer exceeding that figure could see them change their mind.
Nothing came of it, as it appears West Ham never increased their offer, but there’s also a feeling that if they did, he would have turned them down.
The player has already spoken about the fact he ‘laughed’ at all the speculation surrounding his future in January since he was so comfortable at Marseille, who are currently 2nd in Ligue 1, hoping to qualify for the Champions League.
Furthermore, members of his entourage have made it clear Sanson would also only leave the French club for a club that would further his career, and it’s fair to speculate whether a move to London Stadium would do that these days.
Speaking to 20 Minutes, one said: “Morgan is often approached, but he won’t leave unless, football wise, it’s better than Marseille. His objective isn’t to win more money, it’s to progress at a sport level”.
Another added: “For Morgan, the priority is Marseille, but he still listens to offers as long as they are in line with his ambitions”.
West Ham are currently in a relegation battle in the Premier League, and would offer nothing better football wise for Sanson, who could stay at Marseille and play in the Champions League next season if things stay the way they are.
Something would have to drastically change within the London club to make them appealing for the player right now, and considering how things have gone since David Moyes took over, that doesn’t look like happening anytime soon.
