Crysencio Summerville was one of the few reasons West Ham supporters had to smile during an otherwise miserable campaign.
Relegation to the Championship was a huge disappointment, but the Dutch winger consistently gave the Hammers a spark when many around him struggled.
Summerville finished the season with seven goals in 34 appearances across all competitions and also caught the eye on the international stage, scoring twice and providing two assists for the Netherlands at the World Cup.
Those performances only increased interest in one of West Ham’s biggest assets.
It is no surprise that clubs across Europe are now circling.
He is fearless in one-v-one situations, carries the ball over long distances and has the confidence to make things happen when games become tight.
At just 24, there is still room for him to improve his decision-making and become even more productive in the final third.
Roma boss Gian Piero Gasperini has built his reputation around aggressive, attacking football and wide players who can beat defenders before driving into dangerous areas.
Summerville looks well suited to that style, while Champions League football would naturally appeal after West Ham’s relegation.
The Irons remain in a strong negotiating position because Summerville is under contract until 2029 and several teams have monitored him throughout the summer.
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If they are forced to sell, they should make sure they receive every penny they believe he is worth rather than accepting the first acceptable offer.
Fabrizio Romano shares Crysencio Summerville to Roma update
According to Fabrizio Romano, Roma are preparing to return with an improved offer after West Ham rejected their opening proposal.
Romano reports that the Italian club’s first bid, worth €40 million plus €5 million in add-ons, was turned down on Saturday. He adds that Roma are now ready to reopen negotiations with a fresh proposal, while Summerville is keen on the move if an agreement can be reached.
That places West Ham in an interesting position.
Negotiations are clearly progressing, but the Hammers have shown they are not prepared to lower their valuation simply because they are now a Championship club.
Reports suggest Summerville’s €50 million release clause also expires in two days, so Roma are fast running out of time to make a decision about whether to simply pay that fee.
Roma will hope the player’s desire to join can help bridge the gap, yet West Ham are under no obligation to compromise if their asking price is not met.
