Former Barcelona star Sergi Roberto in talks to make surprise Premier League move - Reports
Former Barcelona player Sergi Roberto is in talks for a surprising move to Premier League club West Ham United. According to Football Insider, the Hammers view Roberto’s experience and his know-how at the highest level as a significant asset for their squad.
Roberto, who has captained Barcelona on several occasions, is currently a free agent after being released by the club at the end of last season. Despite potential interest from multiple clubs, West Ham are currently exploring a move, especially with the arrival of Spanish manager Julen Lopetegui.
The 32-year-old Roberto joined Barcelona in 2006 and has been with the club ever since. He made over 100 appearances for Barcelona B before making his debut for the first team in 2010.
Over his 14-year career with Barcelona, he made 373 appearances, scored 19 goals, and won two Champions Leagues, seven La Liga titles, six Spanish Cups, five Spanish Super Cups, and a Club World Cup.
Roberto’s trophy-winning experience could be highly beneficial to West Ham. Beyond that, his versatility could particularly be valuable for Lopetegui, as he can play both as a full-back and a central midfielder.
Moreover, Roberto has previously even played under Lopetegui for Spain when the current West Ham boss managed the national team from 2016 to 2018.
West Ham United close to adding two more players, in addition to Sergi Roberto interest
West Ham appear to have a well-defined plan under Julen Lopetegui, having already signed two quality players. The club has acquired winger Luis Guilherme from Palmeiras and added Max Kilman from Wolves to strengthen their defense.
Additionally, Leeds United’s wide player Crysencio Summerville has agreed to join the Hammers, and both Niclas Fullkrug and Guido Rodríguez are close to finalizing deals with the club.
West Ham are negotiating with Borussia Dortmund for Füllkrug, who scored 15 goals in 43 appearances last season. Meanwhile, Argentina international Rodriguez, who is currently a free agent after leaving Real Betis, is also close to signing with the Hammers, despite interest from Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce, according to the Mirror.
Furthermore, the club is pursuing a deal for Roberto, but they are facing competition from AS Roma, Ajax, and Como as reported by Matteo Moretto of Relevo.
West Ham have played three friendlies so far, but have won just once against lower-division club Dagenham & Redbridge. They are set to face fellow Premier League side Crystal Palace next, followed by a clash against Celta Vigo to round off their pre-season.