West Ham have “met” with the representatives of Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, according to ExWHUEmployee.

Writing on The West Ham Way Patreon (quotes via their website), the insider claimed that, while discussions were “constructive”, it will be a complicated transfer to complete:

“We asked for an update on Zion Suzuki’s situation. Once more, our interest in the player was expressed and stated that we had already met with the player’s representatives.”

“It was felt this could be a difficult deal to get over the line, despite the club admitting a long-term interest in the Japanese international and positive constructive talks with the player’s representatives.”

Parma want a sizeable sum for Suzuki

It is believed that a fee between £30m and £40m could be needed to sign the keeper. It is not surprising to hear, then, that the Hammers think this will be a “difficult deal” to do.

Head coach Graham Potter is keen for a new number one to be brought so it appears that a move for Suzuki will be explored.

However, unless Parma lower their demands, it seems unlikely that a transfer will take place this summer.

Are West Ham considering other options?

Ex has previously mentioned that the Irons could step up their attempts to buy Mads Hermansen from Leicester City, but it must be said that the Denmark international would cost just as much as Suzuki.

Last year, journalist Ben Jacobs mentioned an asking price of around £35m. The Foxes’ relegation and financial issues may lead to the valuation coming down, but he will still not be cheap.

When you factor in that Chelsea have also been credited with an interest in Hermansen, you can see why neither deal will be easy.

In other news, Slavia Prague’s president has spoken out to deny reports that they have agreed to sell a left-back to West Ham