West Ham: Zola deal not done
Gianfranco Zola favourite to takeover at West Ham
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Tuesday, 09, Sep 2008 09:13
West Ham have denied media reports that Italy under 21 manager Gianfranco Zola is on the verge of taking over at Upton Park.
Sporting Director Gianluca Nani has confirmed Zola has been interviewed for the position, but stressed the club were still looking at other candidates. Nani said two of these were working with "foreign federations " – with Slaven Bilic thought to be one of those in question.
"Is Zola a done deal? No, absolutely not," Nani told Radio Radio. "I say officially he is a name we are talking about and a strong and fascinating candidate but we must respect that he is preparing for a very important game.
"I think that the announcement could arrive at the weekend that the coach will take over the team by next week. There are names that are important and have a great past and a great present as players and as coaches.
"I repeat, Zola is one of the candidates but he must focus on the Under-21 side and then we will consider his candidacy."
West Ham are thought to be keen to bring in an Italian manager to replace Alan Curbishley, who resigned last week after complaining transfers were taking place behind his back.
Along with Zola, former Italian national team manager Roberto Donadoni has been interviewed, while Nani stated that Italian duo Mario Somma or Francesco Guidolin were considered and then ruled out due to their lack of English.