JUST IN: Sensational Ukrainian Striker turns down a move to Atletico Madrid as Hammers remain in pole stand to secure his signatire
West Ham United are still in contention to sign Girona striker Artem Dovbyk after he declined a move to Atletico Madrid, according to journalist Patrick Berger of Sky Sports Germany. On July 26, Berger reported that Dovbyk’s agent, Oleksiy Lundovsky, stated that Atletico’s project and financial offer were not satisfactory.
While West Ham remains interested in the 27-year-old striker, AS Roma is considered the frontrunner to secure his services. Berger shared on X: “Artem Dovbyk (27) has decided not to join Atlético Madrid. The striker has rejected an offer from the Spanish side. ‘Atlético is a great club, but we didn’t see a serious project for Artem here, and their offer is significantly lower in financial terms compared to the offers from other clubs interested,’ Artem’s agent Oleksiy Lundovsky says to Ukrfootball.”
West Ham faces a challenge in signing Dovbyk, as Roma’s project may be more attractive to the player. The London club needs to present a strong case, including a compelling project and a competitive financial package, to sway Dovbyk’s decision.
To convince Dovbyk, West Ham should highlight their ambitions, the role he would play in the team, and their plans to compete for titles and in European competitions. Manager Julen Lopetegui could also emphasize the benefits of playing in the Premier League, the most competitive and widely viewed league globally.
Additionally, West Ham can leverage the appeal of living in London and their recent successes to attract Dovbyk. The Premier League’s allure has drawn players even to clubs battling relegation, and West Ham, being on the opposite end of the table, would not be a step backward for the striker.
In other West Ham news, Arsenal and Newcastle have reportedly made late attempts to hijack Spurs’ deal for a Hammers player this summer.
