Lanzafame hitch for Hammers

Palermo want starlet

By Nadia Carminati   Last updated: 20th May 2008

amauri palermo

Amauri: Juve deal nearly done

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West Ham's bid for Juventus starlet Davide Lanzafame could be set for failure because of Amauri's impeding move to Turin.

Juve are set to sign Brazilian-born striker Amauri, but as part of the deal Palermo want 50 per cent ownership of Lanzafame.

Palermo are hoping to land half of Lanzafame, as well as getting Antonio Nocerino and nearly £10million for Amauri.

Previously Palermo wanted Raffaele Palladino, Sebastian Giovinco or Vincenzo Iaquinta - but they were all vetoed - but Lanzafame admits he will go where Juve tell him.

The Italian Under 21 international was on his way to Upton Park on loan for the whole of next season, which Juve were more than happy with.

Lanzafame spent last season on loan at Bari where he scored ten-goals, which attracted the interest of The Hammers and a deal was brokered by their new sporting director - Italian Gianluca Nani.

But now Palermo's request could very well deny The Hammers what would have been a major coup, for one of the most highly-rated young strikers in Europe.

"I'm a Juve player and my future depends on the Bianconeri," he told Corriere dello Sport.

"Palermo? They are a prestigious club and for me it will be a fascinating and new experience.

"Bari for me has been a really beautiful adventure. I'm sorry it ended because I felt really good. I hope one day to be able to wear again this jersey."