John McGinn was open to leaving Aston Villa during Steven Gerrard’s time at the club, with West Ham interested in bringing him to East London, according to The Athletic.
The digital news outlet shared on 24 October that, with McGinn struggling for form under his former boss, he had considered leaving Villa Park, and the Hammers were an option.
However, the arrival of Unai Emery and a conversation about his role at the club eased his concerns, with the two having since forged a close relationship.
It has to be said, McGinn would absolutely thrive under the guidance and instruction of David Moyes. His high work rate, technical quality, confidence in his play and intense nature of his game would be an ideal fit for the style of play in East London.
The Scottish international midfielder has impressed hugely in his time at Aston Villa, and has become a vital part of the way Emery sets his side up, so any lingering West Ham interest may be off the table for now.
Times have changed, West Ham have improved their midfield and Villa have taken a new step forward in terms of the quality of their team and their results, as the Hammers felt as they were dispatched 4-1 at Villa Park this season.
It will be looked at as one that got away for Moyes and his team, the type of transfer that will leave fans frustrated that it never went through, but it appears the Hammers’ interest was never particularly advanced more than just holding an interest.
In other West Ham news, fears have emerged for fans travelling to Olympiacos.
