Premier League

West Ham would laugh to bank with £20m for Antonio

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Image for West Ham would laugh to bank with £20m for Antonio

OPINION

West Ham boss Manuel Pellegrini is unlikely to let many players leave in the upcoming January window, but forward Michail Antonio looks to be one who could end up being sold.

The versatile attacker has looked a shadow of his former self this season for the Hammers, with the 28-year-old attracting constant criticism from fans for his lacklustre displays.

The pace and power that allowed Antonio to establish himself as a force in the Premier League is still just about there, but something is missing from his game of late.

Antonio has still featured in 14 games in all competitions for the Irons, but his previously important role in the side has now been reduced to one of a substitute.

This has led to speculation of a January exit for Antonio, with London rivals Crystal Palace consistently linked with a swoop for the 5ft 11in ace [Transfermarkt].

According to Claret and Hugh, there has been no formal registration of interest from any club, including Palace, regarding Antonio as of yet.

The Hammers insider website also claim that should interest materialise, then the club will demand £20million for Antonio to leave mid-season.

With the 28-year-old costing them just £7million from Nottingham Forest in 2015, that would represent a £13million profit for the Hammers.

Considering his lack of impact over the past season or so, that would be a huge financial result for the Irons even in today’s crazy market.

In fact, co-owners David Gold and David Sullivan will be laughing all the way to the bank if the club manage to squeeze £20million out of Palace, or any other club, for Antonio.

That kind of money would easily pay for a quality squad player to either come in and replace the 28-year-old, or fill in elsewhere for Pellegrini.

Many West Ham fans will now be hoping that is the case, and that they see the back of Antonio in about two months time.

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