Repka Deal Closer

Ludek Miklosko has emerged as the key to the deal which should finally see Tomas Repka signing for the Hammers this week.

Although the Czech centre half was initially reluctant to uproot his family and move from Florence, Ludo has helped pave the way for a change of heart by showing him what the club has to offer.

Glenn Roeder says:

"He had a look at the facilities yesterday and Ludek Miklosko has been acting as our interpreter.

"I have got the feeling through him that Tomas is really looking forward to playing for us, which is obviously very important.

"He will probably live not too far from Ludo because when we are away, which we are quite a lot, his wife can be helped to settle in by Ludo's wife, who is also Czech.

"I met Tomas twice yesterday, once at the training ground and once at the hotel, and he gave me to understand that he is clear in is own mind about leaving Fiorentina now, and is looking forward to a new life in London.

"He understands the financial problems they have got and it is probably not the right place to be staying now.

"We will welcome Tomas Repka and his family with open arms and look forward to him wearing our shirt."

The final pieces of the long running saga are coming together in time for Saturday, and Glenn adds:

"Tomas is undergoing his medical today so hopefully we will be able to bring a conclusion to the transfer over the next couple of days, which would, of course, put him in the running for the Middlesbrough game.

"If he plays like I have seen him play for Fiorentina he will be a special defender for us.