Long frustrated as deal goes on hold

  • by Staff Writer
  • Saturday, 3rd August 2019

West Ham transfer target Aaron Long has criticised the UK's work permit system after his proposed move to West Ham was apparently put on hold.

The 26-year-old defender currently stars for the New York Bulls in the MLS and appeared on course to complete a transfer to West Ham until the move stalled due to a lack of international appearances, say Sky Sports.

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Home office regulations state that a player must have appeared in a certain percentage of their nation's most recent games - a figure that Long is close to, but yet to reach.

As a result what would've been a dream move to the Premier League is unlikely to happen before the transfer window closes next week, unless a deal can be struck.

"As our biggest ally, it seems strange that a football player from the US can't automatically get a work visa to play in England," Long told Sky.

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"Every kid in the USA dreams of playing in the English Premier League. Not many players get the chance, so of course I would like to play there someday."

Long, who was recently named as the MLS' Defender of the Year is available for just £4million due to an escape clause in his contract with the American club.

Should West Ham fail to conclude a deal, several other clubs across Europe are reported to be ready to step in.

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