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Will West Ham sprint from the blocks or play the waiting game?

By Scott Johnson

LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 04: Manuel Pellegrini, Manager of West Ham United looks on prior to the Premier League match between West Ham United and Southampton FC at London Stadium on May 04, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 04: Manuel Pellegrini, Manager of West Ham United looks on prior to the Premier League match between West Ham United and Southampton FC at London Stadium on May 04, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images) /
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It’s a crucial summer for West Ham as they look to back up progress made under Pellegrini. Is it best to sprint out the blocks, or play a patient game?

If last year was crucial to make West Ham a top half side again, this one will be important for continuing that transition. However there may be a bit of a difference in approach to transfers this year, given the likely budget difference. Whereas last year we went out hard and fast, I think we can expect a bit more patience.

For Pellegrini’s first season it was essential key players were brought in early to get used to the new style of play. They were going to be critical moving forwards, so the earlier the better. In fact quite a few Hammers’ fans were not happy about the lack of activity at the end of the window. But Diop was signed early and the Anderson  and Yarmolenko deals were both pushed through as soon as possible. Big deals, sorted to give Pellegrini time to prepare.

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Now the squad is going to undergo a bit more of a gentle rotation. I don’t think we’re going to be seeing multiple big signings this season and it’s going to be a squad changeover. Deadwood will be cleared, and the general quality will be raised. These players can be slotted in when possible, and it is increasingly helpful for the club to be pushing for the best deal possible, not just throwing money.

If a club wants to sell a player quickly to fund a deal, then that timeline can suit us. If the other club wants to take their time and look for a replacement player, then we’re not in a rush. We have the ability to make sure we get the players we’re after without having to pay a time premium. We’re not going to need to pay 2m just to make sure we get them this week, or move onto another  target because the other club want to get another deal done first.

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We’re in a better position this year, and our timeline will probably reflect that. Whilst there maybe one or two deals that get done early, I think we’ll see more done in the middle/end of the window. If a deal is there to be had we’ll go for it. But money won’t be spent for nothing.