Surprise PL club to hijack deal to sign player wanted by Mourinho at Fenerbahce after failed Barcelona move - Reports

According to HITC, West Ham United are looking to make a move for former Barcelona target Guido Rodriguez. The Argentina has also been linked with a move to Turkish club Fenerbahce, currently coached by Jose Mourinho.

Rodriguez, 30, last played for Real Betis and is currently a free agent. He was previously linked with a move to Barcelona but talks of a transfer broke down with the Catalan club.

West Ham, meanwhile, already have Lucas Paqueta, Edson Alvarez, and more in their ranks. Julien Lopetegui, though, is interested in signing Rodriguez on a free transfer. It is understood that Fenerbahce and West Ham are the two leading candidates to sign Rodriguez this summer. The Argentine defensive midfielder was in the 2022 FIFA World Cup winning squad.

He played 173 matches for Real Betis, scoring nine goals and providing four assists. Rodriguez has also made 30 appearances for La Albiceleste and played 13 minutes during Copa America 2024, won by Lionel Scaloni's team.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano recently revealed that Rodriguez is prioritizing a move to the Catalan club. He wrote on X (formerly Twitter):

"Guido Rodriguez, giving priority to West Ham proposal despite several calls and approaches in the recent weeks. West Ham are confident to get the deal done soon as verbal agreement is now close."

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Barcelona target told to stay at current club: Reports

Nico Williams is a priority transfer target for Barcelona. The pacey winger had an impressive 2023-24 campaign and was also a crucial cog in the Spain team that won Euro 2024. He scored two goals and provided one assist, including a goal in a 2-1 win against England in the final.

Williams, though, has been told to stay at Athletic Bilbao for another season for another season by his inner circle, as per Mundo Deportivo. Those close to the player reportedly want a 2025 switch.

Athletic Club are looking to hand Williams a deal with a higher release clause, which could jeopardize a future transfer. At Barca, he could potentially link up with close friends Alejandro Balde and Lamine Yamal.