AdminWest Ham supporters were left scratching their heads this week after reports emerged linking striker Pablo with a surprise move to Serie A giants Napoli.
The claim, first reported by Italian newspaper Il Messaggero, suggests the forward’s agent, Jorge Mendes, has been exploring options across Europe in an effort to keep his client playing at the highest level despite the Hammers’ relegation.
For many West Ham fans, the story came as a genuine shock.
Signed for around £20 million during the January transfer window, Pablo struggled to make a significant impact in claret and blue. While his work rate and willingness to press from the front earned some appreciation, goals and decisive attacking contributions were in short supply.
That has inevitably led to questions over whether the 22-year-old is truly ready for a club of Napoli’s stature.
There are several members of the West Ham squad who would be expected to attract interest from top-flight clubs following relegation. Pablo, however, was not a name many would have placed near the top of that list.
Still, agents are paid to create opportunities, and Mendes is one of the most influential figures in world football.
Napoli secured second place in Serie A after a 1-0 victory over Udinese on the final day of the campaign, guaranteeing Champions League football next season.
Should Pablo somehow find himself lining up in Europe’s elite competition next term, it would rank among the most surprising transfers of the summer.
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