Graziano Pelle Being Targeted For Shock Premier League Return

Graziano Pelle's time in the Chinese Super League could be coming to an end, with the Italian striker being linked with a surprising return to the Premier League.

Although if the former Southampton hitman were to venture back to the English top flight, he would have to do so on a significantly smaller salary than the £13.5 million-a-year he currently pockets with Shandong Luneng.

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It is believed West Ham are targeting a move for the 32-year-old, with the Mail reporting the Hammers' interest in the Italy international, today as David Moyes looks to bolster his forward line ahead of the second half of the season.

Pelle spent two seasons with Southampton between 2014 and 2016, scoring 30 times in 81 appearances before making his journey to the Far East in a £12 million deal.

Moyes has also looked into a deal for Liverpool's Daniel Sturridge, with Pelle's salary a potential stumbling block.

Finances aside, Pelle is believed to be seeking a return to Europe after 18 months in China and would welcome a move to London, although on what financial terms remains to be seen.

The Hammers' form has drastically improved since Moyes took over at the back end of 2017, following a dreadful start to the season under ex-manager Slaven Bilic. The London club now look much more likely to avoid relegation, although their exit from the FA Cup at the hands of League One's Wigan Athletic yesterday has angered some fans, who have concerns over the investments in the first team from the club's board.