West Ham and Forest face threat in midfielder race | OneFootball

Magassa in Demand: Monaco Midfielder Sparks Premier League and Serie A Bidding War

Premier League Clubs Step Up Interest

The transfer tug-of-war over AS Monaco’s Soungoutou Magassa has entered a new phase. The 20-year-old French midfielder, who featured in 21 Ligue 1 matches and 7 Champions League ties last season, has become one of Europe’s most closely watched young midfielders. His versatility, athleticism and defensive discipline have caught the eye of multiple clubs as we approach the final stretch of the summer transfer window.

West Ham United and Nottingham Forest appear locked in a bidding battle, with Foot Mercato confirming: “West Ham-Nottingham Forest battle, with the two teams having respectively made an offer of €16 million for the Hammers and €17 million for the Tricky Trees.” It’s an early indication of how highly rated Magassa is, and Monaco will feel vindicated in playing hardball.

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Atalanta Enter the Conversation

While the focus has centred around the Premier League, another serious contender has emerged. “According to our information, Atalanta Bergamo has not yet made an offer but has come to inquire with the player’s entourage.” That discreet move from the Serie A club hints at growing European recognition of Magassa’s value, both current and future.

For Monaco, this is a classic auction scenario, and one they are well-versed in navigating. With multiple leagues interested, the Ligue 1 side could hold out for a higher fee, possibly beyond €20 million, especially if further clubs enter the chase.

Monaco in Strong Position to Dictate Terms

Magassa’s appeal lies in his adaptability and tactical intelligence. With AS Monaco showing signs of upward trajectory again, their willingness to sell will depend on the fee and future incentives. Foot Mercato conclude with: “An intense battle that benefits AS Monaco, who could raise the stakes given the attractiveness of their player. To be continued.”

What’s certain is this: Magassa is ready to move. Where he lands next could shape both his development and the midfield structure of whichever club secures him.

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Expectant Premier League Supporter Reaction

If you’re a Forest or West Ham fan, this report reads like the start of an intriguing gamble. At €16–17 million, it feels like both clubs are trying to pull off a bargain, banking on Magassa’s ceiling rather than his current output. Some will argue he’s not the finished product, but modern football rewards clubs who bet on upside, and he certainly has it.

Monaco’s reluctance to rush a deal is no surprise. They’ve seen this film before and know how to extract every euro. The fact that Atalanta are sniffing around will rightly make fans nervous. The Serie A club are famed for snapping up undervalued talent and making them shine.

For Forest, who have added youth before with mixed success, this is a chance to reinforce in a crucial area. For West Ham, it might feel like the long-term replacement they need in midfield post-Rice. But let’s not ignore the risk—this isn’t a player with years of top-flight dominance under his belt.

The next days are vital. Should a club blink and push past €20 million, the deal might accelerate. Either way, if Magassa lands in England, he’s one to watch this season.