Transfer Rumors: Newcastle, West Ham Join Wild Race For Rising Verona Midfielder

West Ham United and Newcastle United are in the headlines again, with the two clubs reportedly joining the race for the services of Antonin Barak.

Barak has been drawing plenty of attention since the start of the 2021-22 season with Hellas Verona.

After initially joining the team on a loan that eventually became permanent, the 27-year-old footballer has had a phenomenal season with 11 goals across his name.

In 15 league appearances, he has five goals and three assists–including goals against Milan and Roma.

It appears the permanent move has motivated the Czech footballer to take his game up a notch, a good development for the Mastiffs.

However, along with that comes the interest in him with the Hammers and Magpies now joining the fray, L’Arena reported.

But Newcastle and West Ham are not the only ones who have their eye on Barak. AC Milan and Inter Milan were also mentioned as teams keeping tabs with the rising midfielder.

German club Mainz has also been mentioned and a potential push for Barak could happen by the January transfer window.

To successfully acquire Barak, a £17 million ($22.47 million) fee would be required.

It would be best to note that the Hammers already have some Czech players in the fold. That includes Vladimir Coufal, Tomas Soucek and Alex Kral.

This could play an influential role with Barak possibly wanting to play alongside his countrymen, Calciomercato reported.

But then again, a move to St. James Park would also make sense for Barak.

The Magpies are anticipated to make a big splurge, and taking in players who can blossom into big stars is a prerogative.

In the case of Barak, this could be an opportunity for him to shine more and establish himself in the sport.

Also worth factoring in is the fact that Hellas Verona could play hardball and prefer to keep the Czech in the fold.

But with plenty of suitors, there is no question that these teams will try to dangle tempting deals, something that could be hard to turn down even for Gli Scaligeri.