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4 goals, 2 assists – West Ham signing this prolific 28-year-old star would make them lethal

Why Moussa Marega would be a brilliant signing for West Ham

Back in July 2019, the Daily Mirror (h/t The Daily Star) had claimed West Ham were interested in signing FC Porto striker Moussa Marega. However, a deal didn’t go through in the summer and he has since stayed put at FC Porto.

Moussa Marega, 28, enjoyed an excellent 2018/19 campaign with Porto, netting 21 times. Last month, he was named Porto Footballer of the Year for 2019 following his impressive goalscoring run. The Malian has continued that form this campaign, netting four goals and providing two assists in eight league fixtures.

The 28-year-old has a strong record in Portugal with Porto and has good experience in the Champions League too. Keeping everything in mind, West Ham must rekindle their interest in Marega when the transfer window reopens in January.

FC Porto striker Moussa Marega celebrates after scoring. (Getty Images)
FC Porto striker Moussa Marega celebrates after scoring. (Getty Images)

West Ham picked up their first victory since September when they beat Chelsea 1-0 at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, easing some pressure off Manuel Pellegrini’s shoulders. A second-half striker from Aaron Cresswell was enough for the Hammers to win the London derby.

Pellegrini’s side have scored a total of just 17 Premier League goals in 14 games this season. They are fully dependent on record signing Sebastien Haller for goals, but the Frenchman has struggled of late.

Haller needs more support up front to thrive and as things stand, Pellegrini lacks effective back-up options up top after losing Andy Carroll, Lucas Perez, Marko Arnautovic and Javier Hernandez in the summer.

West Ham brought in youngster Albian Ajeti as a part of their summer recruitment drive but the Swiss star is yet to convince the Chilean tactician. Of course, it would be unfair to write him off given his age and potential, but bringing in another striker like Moussa Marega could be a smart move.

As the season wears on, West Ham would need adequate depth in their ranks to cope with the hectic and gruelling schedule of the Premier League, as well as the FA Cup, and Marega could offer that little bit more up top for Pellegrini.

Moussa Marega has been a prolific goalscorer for FC Porto over the last two seasons. (Getty Images)
Moussa Marega has been a prolific goalscorer for FC Porto over the last two seasons. (Getty Images)

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In terms of his attributes, the 28-year-old is a strong, powerful forward blessed with the great aerial ability and killer instinct in front of goal.

He can also make impressive runs behind the defenders and also has the ability to find the net with powerful shots from outside the box. In the video below, one could get a glimpse of the Mali international’s style of play and the qualities he could bring to West Ham if a move goes through.

Verdict

Signing Marega would also bring about healthy competition in the starting XI and will help both players, as well as West Ham, reach greater heights. All in all, the Porto star would certainly be a massive coup for the Hammers.