Fernando Llorente? An upgrade on quality and versatility for West Ham

LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 30: Fernando Llorente of Tottenham Hotspur looks on during the UEFA Champions League Semi Final first leg match between Tottenham Hotspur and Ajax at at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on April 30, 2019 in London, England. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 30: Fernando Llorente of Tottenham Hotspur looks on during the UEFA Champions League Semi Final first leg match between Tottenham Hotspur and Ajax at at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on April 30, 2019 in London, England. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images)

West Ham are reportedly interested in bringing Fernando Llorente into the club on a free transfer this summer. I’m prepared to argue it’s a great move all around.

Some of you are probably already recoiling in shock at the idea of signing a Spurs’ player. Others are probably doubting that I’m a West Ham fan at all. However I think it could be a perfect move to make sure that our bench and squad are ready for the season ahead, and the push we want to make up the table.

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No, I don’t want to actually do business with Spurs. No, I don’t think that he is good enough to lead our front line on a permanent basis. And no, I don’t want him to be our main signing up front. But I do think he’s more of what we need if we want to challenge more in the cups and in the league.

Whilst he is a current Spurs player, the Hammers could get the Spaniard for free as his contract is up this summer. This would obviously mean some higher wages would have to be paid but with Carroll and Hernandez both departing we are likely to be able to accommodate this sort of outgoing. He is not lightning quick or dynamic but he is strong in the air, good at playing with his back to goal and someone who can be trusted to pop up with important goals at the right time. Just look at Spurs’ Champions League run.

For those who think Hernandez is better, I don’t think you really understand what he brings. Obviously, Hernandez is a bit sharper in terms of getting beyond the last man, but that’s not what Llorente wants to do when he gets on the pitch. He will want to get in the box and will look to create chances either for himself or supporting midfielders as soon as possible. Playing behind (hopefully) Gomez and Arnautovic as striker options he will solidify our quality throughout the season. And for free.

This is all based on the fact that ExWhuEmployee mentioned we were interested in him, but there’s nothing concrete yet. Can we get something sorted? I for one would definitely be interested. Let us know what you think below.