Al Jazira misfit Manuel Lanzini excited for “new era” with West Ham

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  • London calling: Manuel Lanzini.

    Al Jazira outcast Manuel Lanzini cannot wait to embrace “a new era” in his career after he inked a one-year loan deal with Premier League-outfit West Ham United.

    Lanzini, 22, was unwanted by returning coach Abel Braga after a debut campaign at Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium brought eight assists in 24 Arabian Gulf League appearances but few tangible highlights. 

    His spot in the four-man foreign quota was taken last month by Brazil attacking midfielder Thiago Neves, purchased for €11 million (Dh45m) from Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal.

    The $10m (Dh 36.7m) signing from River Plate has recovered in style from this snub, yesterday becoming the Hammers’ seventh addition under new manager Slaven Bilic. 

    If the playmaker is able to impress in east London, an option for a permanent deal has already been confirmed.

    Lanzini is looking forward to the opportunity to compete in one of the world’s strongest competitions.

    “This is very emotional because it is one of the best teams I have ever signed for,” he told West Ham TV. “It is a very important step for my career and for my future.

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    “I am looking forward to what is a new era for me.

    “This is a new challenge for me and that can only help in the future. It will test my ability in one of the best leagues in the world, so I am looking forward to getting started.”

    Meanwhile, Swansea will resist any attempts by Al Ahli to lure powerful France striker Bafetimbi Gomis away from Liberty Stadium.

    Bafetimbi Gomis scored 10 goals in 37 appearances for Swansea last season. 

    Gomis, 29, has emerged as one of a number of options being considered as dethroned champions the Red Knights look to cure their chronic lack of goals. 

    Reports from Press Association Sport Wednesday revealed the club “will not encourage any interest” in a player who scored 10 goals for them after joining from Lyon on a free transfer last summer.

    But Ahli – who only netted 35 times in 2014/15 as they slumped to seventh – could yet bypass this intransigence if they continue to pursue their target, a £7m (Dh40.1m) release clause in Gomis’ contract rumoured to kick in this summer.

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