Despite plenty of speculation, there was no movement on the goalkeeper front during the January transfer window for West Ham United.
Mads Hermansen was reportedly keen to leave on deadline day, with a return to Leicester City mooted.
But after Tottenham decided to block Antonin Kinsky’s exit – West Ham United had been in talks regarding a loan-to-buy deal for the 22-year-old Czech – the window closed with a pair of seldom-seen shot-stoppers stuck in situ.
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Bento Matheus also saw a mid-season transfer of his own blocked. Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Nassr refused to let the Brazilian international leave.
Thus, putting an end to West Ham’s interest while also scuppering what appeared at one point to be an imminent switch to Genoa.
There would be no such frustration for another seldom-seen glovesman pursuing a change of scenery though. AFC Bournemouth signed Christos Mandas from Lazio in a deal which could become permanent next summer to the tune of £16 million.
Christos Mandas joined Bournemouth after West Ham United interest
According to La Lazio Siamo Noi, West Ham joined Bournemouth in enquiring about Mandas in November. The Cherries would step up their interest while the Londoners found themselves barking up the wrong tree with Kinsky and Bento.
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“Christos is a player that we were following before,” Bournemouth coach Andoni Iraola said after the Greece international signed. “Tiago [Scuro, the former Roma director] knows him very well from the Italian league and I think it’s a different type of keeper than the ones we’ve got.
“He has played at a very high level in Serie A, also some games with the national team. I think it reinforced our goalkeeping position. It’s more competition for everyone, like in other positions.
“I hope he gives his best, so I have to take difficult decisions.”
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Mandas delighted to join Andoni Iroala as Mads Hermansen stays at the Hammers
Mandas was on the bench when Bournemouth beat Wolves 2-0 away from home on Saturday. Djordje Petrovic started, but the former Chelsea glovesman is under the microscope after a number of high-profile errors.
Mandas will be hoping to show the Hammers what they are missing when Bournemouth travel to the London Stadium later this month, presuming he has ousted Petrovic from Iraola’s XI by then.
“It’s an incredible feeling to be part of this club,” Mandas beamed. “I’m proud, being here is a dream for me, and I’m really happy. As soon as I heard about Bournemouth’s interest, I immediately knew I wanted to come.
“There’s a magical atmosphere among the players and fans, and I really like the team’s style of play. It’s the right move for my career.”
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