Three Players West Ham Can Target In The Summer
West Ham United endured a recent 1-1 draw with Stoke City owing to a last-minute equalising goal from Andy Carroll. While it prevented the club from losing 3 points, it must be noted that the solitary point will do nothing to aid the club’s hopes of surviving in the top-flight this season.
They face tough tests against London rivals Arsenal and league leaders Manchester City and their hopes of winning either of these two games look rather slim.
Inefficiency and inconsistency are two adjectives that have marred the club’s season and they have been through more downs than ups so far. However, if they manage to survive in the top-flight beyond the end of the season, the club will face a colossal task of a rebuild. The upcoming summer transfer window will prove to be a good chance to do just that and with that in mind, here are 3 players the club can sign.
Ricardo Pereira – FC Porto
Pereira has emerged as one of the most promising full-backs in the Primeira Liga in recent times and for all right reasons. The 28-year-old boasts of ample experience and has been a part of a solid Porto defence that has shipped just 16 goals this term, which is the best defensive record in the Portuguese top-flight for the ongoing campaign. He can contribute equally on both fronts and Pereira could go on to provide some much-needed energy and pace on the right-hand side.
West Ham have Pablo Zabaleta but at 33 years of age, he is slowing down and there is not much he can offer in the near future either.
Jay Rodriguez – West Bromwich Albion
The fact that Rodriguez has managed to score 11 goals across competitions for bottom-placed West Brom speaks volumes about his goalscoring instincts and capabilities. The Baggies have not had adequate service from several of their players and there is a serious dearth of creativity in the side.
Yet, Rodriguez has managed to score a decent number of goals. Furthermore, the player is incredibly versatile and can play a variety of roles in the midfield and in the attack.
In fact, his versatility can provide West Ham with greater flexibility in terms of tactics and formations. He thrives in the role of a centre-forward and the Hammers could utilise him in that position as well. Also, with West Brom being so close to getting relegated, it won’t be hard to persuade Rodriguez to move this summer.
Danny Drinkwater – Chelsea
West Ham need a new midfielder and the 28-year-old Danny Drinkwater has hardly featured for the defending champions this season.
Due to a severe lack of game time, it is important for the former Leicester star to discover other options and the Hammers could certainly use a player like him. He is experienced and can truly make a difference in the middle of the park. As far as the player is concerned, needless to say, the prospect of regular game time will attract him.