West Ham United were keen on strengthening their attack in the mid-season transfer window.
One of the players they had identified as a target was Duván Zapata of Atalanta, who has been in fine form for the Italian club this season, scoring 21 goals and registering six assists in all competitions.
According to Sky Sport in Italy, West Ham wanted to bring him to the English capital last month and Manuel Pellegrini’s side even ‘offered a super figure’ of €40m to the Serie A outfit.
Unfortunately for the Hammers, Atalanta were not interested in parting ways with the Colombia international in January, which is why they sent back the English club’s proposal.
Atalanta could have raised funds from sanctioning the top scorer’s sale as more money was offered for Zapata than any of their players last month.
At a time when it becomes increasingly difficult to turn down lucrative offers, Atalanta decided to resist bids in order to keep their dream of qualifying for the Champions League alive.
They are currently fifth in the table with 38 points after 23 games, trailing fourth placed Milan by a point.
