West Ham work on stunning move to sign Sergi Roberto – sources
West Ham are considering a move to sign former Barcelona star Sergi Roberto before the 31 August deadline, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that Roberto’s experience at the top level is viewed as a valuable asset to add to the Hammers’ dressing room.
On top of his experience, the ability to play both in midfield and at right-back would lend itself to Julen Lopetegui’s side to help strengthen the squad overall.
The 32-year-old left Barcelona upon the expiry of his contract on 1 July and the Hammers are now considering a swoop to snap him up for free.
The potential deal is seen as a coup by the recruitment team at the London Stadium.
West Ham plotting move to sign ex-Barcelona star Sergi Roberto
Roberto had been at Barcelona for his whole career, making 373 appearances for his boyhood club after playing over 100 times for the B team.
During his time in Catalunya, the versatile midfielder played his part as they won two Champions Leagues, seven La Liga titles, six Spanish Cups, five Spanish Super Cups and a Club World Cup.
However, he never spent an extended period in the first team at the Nou Camp despite being a valued squad member, and played just 24 times under Xavi’s management last season.
Of those 24 appearances, only 14 came in the league, and only 15 came from the start as he faded to a bit-part role.
His release upon the expiry of his deal earlier this month came as Barcelona continued to suffer from financial difficulties, and he was a casualty of another slash to the wage bill.
West Ham have identified Roberto as a possible addition to Julen Lopetegui’s squad, as the boss managed him during his brief spell in charge of Spain.
His experience at the very top of the game would prove key to the side, while lending Lopetegui added influence amongst the players in the dressing room.
In other news, Crysencio Summerville had his medical at West Ham yesterday.
For more West Ham and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.