Arsenal star Jack Wilshere wants to stay close to London if he leaves this summer with West Ham his first choice
Wilshere has attracted firm offers from Italy and Turkey but prefers a move to West Ham - even though they have not made an official approach
ARSENAL star Jack Wilshere is keen to stay as close to London as possible if he leaves Arsenal this summer.
The Independent report interest in Wilshere mainly from abroad with Sampdoria and Turkish outfit Antalyaspor making firm offers for the midfielder, whose Emirates days look numbered.
The unsettled midfielder has a year left to run on his current deal and if a new contract is not agreed the Gunners are prepared to sell the England international this window.
Arsenal are looking for £20million for the 25-year-old, who is understood to be reluctant to move abroad, but his preference to stay close to London cuts down his options.
Wilshere, who was born just outside London in Stevenage, Herts, snubbed moves to Roma and AC Milan last summer and opted for a season at Bournemouth.
West Ham is the midfielder’s preference but the Hammers so far have not made any official move.
The Gunners Academy product made 27 Premier League appearances for the Cherries last term.
The fact Eddie Howe opted against making the move permanent is an indication of how Wilshere’s stock has fallen in recent years and the need for him to rekindle his career.
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West Ham are looking to break into the top eight next season after struggling to adjust to life at the London stadium.
Boss Slaven Bilic has signed Joe Hart, Pablo Zabaleta, Marko Arnautovic and Javier Hernandez.
The addition of Wilshere could be seen as real statement of intent for the East Londoners.