Express. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express.
West Ham transfer news: Jack Wilshere sends big message to Marko Arnautovic
WEST HAM midfielder Jack Wilshere has sent a simple message to team-mate Marko Arnautovic - “we need you”.
Arnautovic is keen on a move away from West Ham after a £35million bid was rejected for him earlier this week.
A Chinese Super League club, thought to be Shanghai SIPG, saw their offer rebuffed by the Hammers.
But Arnautovic’s brother and agent, Danijel, confirmed in a statement that the forward wants to quit the London Stadium.
West Ham responded by issuing a statement saying the Austria international was not for sale.
We need him, he’s one of the best strikers in the Premier League
It read: ”Marko has a contract and we fully expect him to honour it. He is not for sale."
And now Wilshere has pleaded for Arnautovic to stay at West Ham.
He claims the 29-year-old is one of the best strikers he has played with and has highlighted his importance to the east London club.
“In the short time that I’ve been here I’ve seen what type of character he is,” Wilshere said on Sky Sports.
“He’s a great character, he’s a great person to have around.
“He’s the type of player that just wants to play.
“He was struggling with a knee injury and he hardly trained but he always said he was ready to play.
“We need him, he’s one of the best strikers in the Premier League.
“I’ve played with a few good strikers and he’s up there with them.
“What he brings to the team is so important to us.”
Despite speculation over his future, Arnautovic started West Ham's clash with Arsenal on Saturday.
He was substituted in the 71st minute and appeared to wave to the home fans while leaving the pitch.