West Ham star Dimitri Payet has revealed that he was on the verge of joining Besiktas last season but that the deal fell through.
Besiktas were of course managed by Slaven Bilic at the time but failed to secure an agreement. The Croatian manger did manage to finally sign Payet the following season for the Hammers.
Payed was quoted by Fotomac as saying: “Bilic wanted me when he was at Besiktas. It didn’t work out then but we are together now.”
Bilic also wanted fellow Hammers teammates Lanzini during his time in charge of the Black Eagles but was again unable to complete the transfer.
The Hammers head coach also recently revealed that he wanted Payet at Besiktas last season but it did not work out.
Speaking to the Chronicle Bilic said: “Probably the same as what you’re thinking about him.
“To be fair I’m not surprised (by him). I’m only sometimes surprised because he gelled in straight away, but then again we have a good bunch of players chracter-wise.
“They are making it very easy for every new player (to settle).
“Dimitri we got him because of (performances like) this. He is the player I really wanted.
“I was surprised to be fair when we got him so quick. I told the chairman he is my first choice and then in five days it was done.
“I was surprised because last year I tried to take him to Besiktas but it was impossible.”
Payet has been one of the stars of the Premier League this season and has 12 goals as well as 11 assists in all competitions this season.
The free-kick maestro joined the east London based club on an £11.25 million move from Marseille over the summer transfer window on a six-year deal.
Bilic was in charge of Besiktas for two-seasons but despite failing to win a trophy he is largely credited with building the current side that lead the Turkish Super League table.
The Hammers boss was in charge of the Black Eagles during a financially troubled transitionary period and left the club on good terms as a fan favourite.
See More
5 Facts about West Ham signing Emmanuel Emenike
West Ham striker needs fans support to thrive says ex Fenerbahce boss
