Fabrizio Romano drops Julen Lopetegui to Manchester United update amid West Ham United talks
West Ham United target Julen Lopetegui has not had any contact from other Premier League clubs despite links with Manchester United, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The journalist reported in his Daily Briefing column (4 May) that the Spanish manager is on the Hammers’ shortlist “for sure” but so far there has been no concrete interest from any of the Irons’ Premier League rivals.
Lopetegui had been in advanced talks with Italian giants AC Milan, but the former Real Madrid boss was left shocked when negotiations ended abruptly because of the negative reaction from the club’s supporters.
Writing in his Daily Briefing column he said: “Rumours have seen Julen Lopetegui placed on Manchester United’s radar but guys, let me say that Lopetegui is on West Ham’s shortlist for sure, but I’m not aware of other Premier League clubs making contact at this point.
“Lopetegui was also in advanced talks with AC Milan, but the deal was never sealed or signed. He was shocked as the board decided to leave the negotiations because the fans reacted in a very negative way to the news.”
Will West Ham United appoint Julen Lopeamid Manchester United interest?
It seems as though the Hammers are doing everything they can to get Lopetegui through the door to replace David Moyes at the London Stadium, with technical director Tim Steidten already holding behind-the-scenes talks.
It could have been a massive blow had United entered the race for the Spaniard’s signature at West Ham are already having to deal with potential competition from Bayern Munich to secure his services.
Lopetegui will likely divide the Hammers fanbase just as much as Moyes already has should he be appointed. Most supporters wanted to see the Irons appoint a younger, more dynamic and attacking manager in place of Moyes.
While Lopetegui isn’t necessarily that, he has managed some of the biggest clubs in the world and been successful throughout his career. He may not be everybody’s first choice, but he may be the best available at this time.
In other West Ham news, Moyes has shared an update on the squad’s fitness ahead of the clash with Chelsea
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