£15m playmaker compared to David Beckham now admits he rejected West Ham this summer
07/07/2024 05:45 AM
One of Europe’s most creative players has now revealed that he rejected an offer from West Ham this summer.
The Hammers are clearly willing to back Julen Lopetegui in the market, having already spent £40m to reunite the Spaniard with Max Kilman – who he made captain during his time at Wolves.
West Ham also made an offer to sign a fellow Spaniard for Lopetegui, although the player in question has now told the media that he turned the Irons down…
Aleix Garcia rejected West Ham
Aleix Garcia has now told Diari de Girona that he turned down an offer from West Ham to join Bayer Leverkusen in a £15.2m deal this summer.
The Spain international helped Girona finish third in La Liga last season with three goals and six assists in 37 league appearances from central midfield – with The Athletic even comparing his dead ball ability to that of David Beckham.
Garcia could have opted to take his talent to the London Stadium, but he has now revealed that he preferred a move to Xabi Alonso’s Bundesliga champions.
When asked if he had any other offers, the 27-year-old said: “One from West Ham. They were the only ones. If I had waited longer, maybe I could have received another one. Playing the Champions League was a trigger.”
Garcia adds that he held talks with Barcelona, although their financial situation prevented them for making an official offer.
Julen Lopetegui could still sign a very creative talent
Garcia would have presumably been a fine addition to West Ham’s squad after his superb 2023/24 campaign with Girona, although the Hammers could still sign a highly creative talent.
The BBC believe West Ham are keen to sign Hull City No.23 Jaden Philogene this summer, a player who blew Micah Richards away with an audacious rabona goal against Rotherham last season – which could end up winning the Puskas award.
In 32 Championship appearances last season, the England U21 international scored 12 goals and also provided six assists, so he would seemingly be a decent alternative to Garcia.
READ MORE: West Ham make approach to sign striker with £32m release clause after Max Kilman bid accepted
Be sure to keep an eye on developments at West Ham, as we expect further reinforcements to follow Kilman to east London.
