Retired former Italian international Massimo Ambrosini has revealed that he came close to joining West Ham United.
The 37-year-old midfielder, capped 35 times for his country hung up his boots at the end of the 2013/14 season following a long and distinguished career (spent largely at AC Milan).However Ambrosini, who is currently working as a TV pundit admitted that he came close to becoming a Hammer last season - before eventually opting to see out his career in Italy with Fiorentina.
"Last year I was very close to signing for West Ham before going to Fiorentina," he said. "I was still happy to join Fiorentina but I would have loved to play in England.
"I love the Premier League; the passion, the stadiums and fans there. For them, football is not a matter of life or death but a game is a good thing. However, the deal fell through and I'm glad I joined Fiorentina."
KUMB.com reported back in May 2013 how West Ham and representatives of Ambrosini had discussed a potential transfer. The former Milan star, who travelled to London for preliminary talks was offered a two-year deal but decided instead to remain in Serie A.
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