AS Roma’s Anass Salah-Eddine was the subject of interest from West Ham but a deal failed to go through before the deadline.
On deadline day, the UK press spoke of the Hammers’ late move for the versatile defender, who can also slot into midfield.
The player spent the 2025/26 campaign on loan at PSV Eindhoven. Even there, he didn’t get regular playing time. At Roma, he is a fringe player who is out of Gian Piero Gasperini’s project too.
More clarity is now emerging about the 24-year-old’s situation in the Italian capital.
Other options on the table
Gazzetta dello Sport report that the 24-year-old was never interested in a move to West Ham. He rejected the Hammers’ late attempt to sign him, even if his exit could’ve helped Roma free up finances for incomings.
This doesn’t mean the Moroccan will stay at Roma. Clubs from countries where the transfer window is still open could yet step forward for his signature.
Dutch journalist Joost Blaauwhof adds more details, while confirming that West Ham never attracted the player.
It didn’t make sense from a sporting perspective for him to play there. This is probably because he doesn’t want to feature in the Championship and is seeking something better.
Hammers move could’ve been useful
Salah-Eddine is someone who should be desperately pushing for regular football. That didn’t happen at Roma or PSV Eindhoven but a move to West Ham could’ve given him that chance.
Even if it would’ve been in the Championship, he could’ve used that as a springboard for more. There is every chance the London club return to the top-flight.
His versatility as a player would have certainly helped. He has previously played in a back three system and has also done well in a back four. This would have come in very handy for Nuno Espirito Santo’s side.
