West Ham in picture to sign title winner – Hammers man can be used as ‘bargaining chip’

Last month, West Ham United confirmed that they have appointed Julen Lopetegui as David Moyes’ successor.

Lopetegui’s arrival could impact Emerson Palmieri’s future at the London club. The 29-year-old, who was a regular for the Hammers last season, has been linked with a move to AC Milan in the summer window.

The Serie A side’s local rivals, Inter Milan, could also be an option for the West Ham left-back.

That’s according to InterLive.it, who say the Premier League side have set their sights on Inter’s Carlos Augusto.

Last summer, the Italian champions signed the 25-year-old from AC Monza on loan with a conditional obligation to buy. He was a regular for them in their title winning campaign, making 37 league appearances.

The West Ham manager is likely to sign a new left-back this summer, and his focus seems to be on Augusto. Lopetegui could use Emerson as a ‘bargaining chip’ to sign the Nerazzurri player.

It’s claimed the Hammers would offer the player plus €20m to try and convince Inter to sell the Brazil international.

This formula won’t please the Serie A winners, who have no intention of parting ways with Augusto. If West Ham are still keen on signing him, they may have to work out a different formula.