Ricardo Rodriguez was “close” to joining West Ham before the move fell through, according to journalist Gianluca Di Marzio.

Writing on his website, the Sky Sport Italia reporter said that the veteran fullback was poised to complete a free transfer to the London Stadium.

However, the deal collapsed with the two parties unable to agree on the “final” details. Rodriguez has been without a club since leaving Real Betis at the end of June.

It means he can still be snapped up after the closure of the transfer window, but Di Marzio says that the 34-year-old is now expected to sign for one of his former clubs, Torino.

Why were West Ham interested in the player?

Rodriguez is a left-back/wingback, so he would have been brought in to provide cover for Ollie Scarles following the departure of El Hadji Malick Diouf to Brentford.

The former Wolfsburg and AC Milan defender has a wealth of experience, having been capped 144 times by Switzerland. He has played for his country at four World Cups and three European Championships.

An alternative to Rodriguez has been signed

It was announced on Wednesday afternoon that the Hammers did manage to secure the signature of Athletic Club defender Adama Boiro on a season-long loan before the deadline. Speaking about his move, the 24-year-old said that he is looking forward to playing in the Championship:

“I like the challenge that’s in front of us here. This is a club with ambition and an objective to get promoted, and I think my mentality, my desire and my hard work will help my teammates and the club achieve that.”

Boiro played 23 games for Athletic Club in all competitions last season, featuring six times in the Champions League.

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