Harry Diamond
West Ham have told Valencia to forget about signing Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez after the La Liga side expressed an interest in taking the forward to Spain.
Valencia coach Marcelino is keen to bolster his attacking options this month, and was keen on a move for the Mexican, although he is believed to have been told that he is not available by the West Ham board.
The 30-year-old – Mexico’s record goal-scorer with 50 goals – has struggled to establish himself as a first-choice striker since signing for West Ham from Bayer Leverkusen for £16m in 2017, with Marko Arnautovic being preferred.
He has made 14 league appearances this season, scoring four goals, and Hammers boss Manuel Pellegrini is believed to be keen on retaining the services of the forward.
According to AS, West Ham’s stance has caused Valencia to cool their interest, although the Spanish side will reignite their interest in the former Manchester United striker, should his availability change.
Valencia currently have Chelsea forward Michy Batshuayi on-loan, but the Belgian international could be set to return to English football following an underwhelming spell in Spain and has been linked with a move to a Crystal Palace.