West Ham boss Pellegrini plays down Dzeko link

© Nigel French/PA Wire

Manuel Pellegrini has played down reports that West Ham could make a move for Roma’s former Manchester City striker Edin Dzeko.

Dzeko previously played under former City boss Pellegrini at the Etihad Stadium and the Chilean has been tipped to try to bring him back to the Premier League when the transfer window reopens in January.

However, speaking at a press conference on Thursday afternoon, Pellegrini refused to be drawn on whether he would seek a reunion with the Bosnia international.

The Hammers manager said: “You can talk about five, six or seven players that are linked with us. We must not talk about one player.

“I know him well but we are not thinking about that at the moment.”

Pellegrini’s immediate focus is this weekend’s London derby against Tottenham.

Spurs and striker Harry kane have looked jaded at times this season but Pellegrini insisted the England captain remains a major threat.

He said: “He is one of the best players in this league. They have three or four players in the England squad. They have a complete squad.

“Mauricio Pochettino has done a very good job. Every year he has improved Tottenham a little bit more. I think they are a good team with a very good manager.”