West Ham are still in “talks” with Juventus about signing Denis Zakaria and they remain “keen” on recruiting the former Chelsea loanee, according to ExWHUEmployee.

However, the insider source claims that the Swiss international’s fitness record is a “worry” for the Hammers, and they are now looking to bring the midfielder in on an initial loan deal:

“Zakaria talks are ongoing, with West Ham concerned over the injury history of the player. He has a significant number of injuries, and the fact he’s only 26 is a worry.”

“The idea at this stage is to reach a loan arrangement, which Juventus aren’t keen on because of FFP. However, a deal could maybe be struck if the loan arrangement includes an obligation to buy, pending on appearances made by the player whilst on loan. Talks are ongoing with West Ham still keen, but bringing the player in would have to fit in with our terms.”

It is believed that Juve have been demanding a permanent move, with an asking price of around €20m (£17m) having been set, so a lot depends on the Serie A side softening their stance.

Zakaria’s injury history does demonstrate why West Ham are right to be cautious

The 26-year-old has had his fair share of injuries over the years, with the most serious being the ACL he sustained in 2020 during his time at Borussia Monchengladbach.

Since then, Zakaria has also suffered a torn abductor muscle, a thigh problem and a hamstring injury. You wouldn’t say that his fitness issues are enough to stop a deal going ahead but it’s a prudent move to ask for a loan in the circumstances.

As Ex mentions, an obligation to buy based on appearances may well be the compromise that the two teams reach in order to get an agreement, so we shall see how negotiations progress in the coming days.