Alious“Flattered” Serie A Star Breaks Silence as West Ham Open Talks Over £17m Vieira Protégé — Milan & Brentford Also Circle
West Ham United are wasting no time in reshaping their midfield for the upcoming Premier League campaign, with their recruitment drive already in full swing following the conclusion of the 2024/25 season.
While Jarrod Bowen delivered a standout performance in a 3-1 victory over Ipswich Town on the final day, attention behind the scenes has swiftly shifted to bolstering the Hammers’ midfield engine — an area that has lacked dynamism and drive under Graham Potter’s leadership.
Among the names high on their radar is **Morten Frendrup**, Genoa’s highly-regarded Danish midfielder. According to *Give Me Sport*, West Ham have opened discussions with the Serie A side, who are reportedly open to a sale if a bid in the region of £17 million is tabled.
Frendrup, a combative yet technically assured midfielder, is admired for his ability to both win back possession and progress the ball up the pitch with purpose — making him a potential dual-threat as both a No. 6 and No. 8. His energetic style has earned comparisons to Liverpool icon Javier Mascherano, though he personally cites Steven Gerrard as his childhood hero.
When asked about the Premier League interest, the 24-year-old expressed humility but acknowledged the growing speculation:
> “It’s flattering to be linked with such big clubs,” Frendrup told *Give Me Sport*. “But my focus remains with Genoa. I believe in staying grounded and concentrating on the present, although it’s encouraging to see my name mentioned in connection with top European teams.”
Frendrup has spent three formative years in Italy, growing into a key figure at Genoa. His former coach, Alberto Gilardino — who was replaced earlier this year by Patrick Vieira — hailed the Dane as a versatile, explosive, and dependable asset.
> “Morten is incredibly dynamic, quick over short distances, and tactically intelligent,” Gilardino said. “He can play across the midfield and always brings a sense of reliability.”
But West Ham are not alone in their admiration. Brentford, led by fellow Dane Thomas Frank, are also monitoring the situation. With a squad built around a strong Danish nucleus, Frendrup would fit seamlessly into the Bees’ philosophy. Meanwhile, AC Milan and Fiorentina are reportedly eager to keep the midfielder in Italy, adding serious competition to the race for his signature.
While Manchester United and Liverpool appear to be focused elsewhere, West Ham will need to act swiftly and decisively if they are to land a player who may just be the transformative presence their midfield so desperately needs.
Alious
