Pundit Exclusive: West Ham contract U-turn on the cards after Antonio reveal
Gabriel Agbonlahor has claimed out-of-contract West Ham striker Michail Antonio may have to wait until the end of the season for a new deal.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley, the former England and Aston Villa striker insisted the Hammers will hold fire on a new deal until they see how the 30-year-old returns from injury.
David Moyes revealed before his side's game against Leeds United that he was a major doubt for the trip to Elland Road.
Antonio suffered a hamstring injury against Manchester City in October but made a return against Aston Villa a fortnight ago.
However, he was substituted at half-time after he visibly struggled at the London Stadium.
This site revealed at the beginning of October that the club's board were willing to offer Antonio a new contract.
However, Agbonlahor has claimed talks may have slowed down because of his recent injury setback and a U-turn in strategy may be on the cards.
He told Football Insider: "I'm sure deals for Antonio and other players will be sorted.
"Antonio is in his thirties now so maybe West Ham want to wait.
"You've got to remember he's had this injury now. Maybe West Ham are waiting to see if he can re-find his form after his injury.
"Sometimes clubs can rush into giving players and managers contracts so maybe they're just waiting to see.
"I'm sure Antonio loves playing for West Ham so if he has to wait until the end of the season to sign his contract then maybe he will."
West Ham have the option to extend Antonio's current deal by a season if an agreement over a new deal cannot be reached.