West Ham opinion: Should the Hammers make a move for Kerem Demirbay?

Italian news outlet Calciomercato has reported that West Ham have entered the race for Bundesliga star Kerem Demirbay. The Hammers are looking for creative midfielders to help further their cause due to Manuel Lanzini’s injury woes.

The Argentinian has missed a total of 463 days since his move in 2016, and to combat that Manuel Pellegrini brought in Jack Wilshere.

Though the former Arsenal man is a perfect player to add in theory, like Lanzini, Wilshere is very injury prone. The 26-year-old was once considered to be among England’s best youth prospects.

This has given manager Manuel Pellegrini a few problems this season, as he has had to depend heavily on either his full-backs or his wingers to provide creativity. That has clearly affected the club and suggests why a move for Kerem Demirbay would make a lot of sense.

At the age of 25, the German has also had his share of injuries but has never let that affect performance. So far this season, the 25-year-old has played nearly every game for Hoffenheim, missing just the opening five games.

Since then, Kerem Demirbay has made his mark, contributing to 13 goals in 29 appearances in all competitions. It showcases where his abilities lie, and that is clearly not in one single position.

Played by manager Julian Naglesmann all over the midfield line, Demirbay has flourished wherever he has been placed. That is thanks to his creative brain, a feather touch with the ball and an ability to find space in even against the tightest of back-lines.

He’s also a set-piece specialist, which is another feature that the Hammers have missed this season. A move would be perfect for both sides and Demirbay’s creative spark will definitely be an incredible asset to West Ham next season.

Playing alongside the likes of Declan Rice and Mark Noble in midfield, the German would be given the freedom to roam about the field. That combined with Felipe Anderson and Marko Arnautovic’s presence will make them a formidable trio.

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Conclusion

West Ham will need to hurry up if they want to win the race for Kerem Demirbay, especially with Arsenal also showing interest in the midfielder (Calciomercato).

For either side, the German would be a quality addition but West Ham need him more than the Gunners do. This season has shown just how badly they need a creative midfielder, and clearly, Manuel Lanzini cannot do the job.