Transfer Rumor: Hirving Lozano to West Ham? Not so fast
By Adam Smith
Much like the international breaks or and extended period off of football, transfer links are emerging and West Ham are central with an exciting talent being named.
The Mexican international and right-winger for Napoli, Hirving Lozano, has been linked with a move out of Italy and over to England, with West Ham named as one of two possible landing spots. As the link explains, if the Hammers want to lock him up they’ll be battling Everton and Wolves for his services.
But hold on. Lozano plays right-wing and the Hammers are pretty stacked in that position now, and looking ahead to next season. So, does it really make sense to spend big on a player that wouldn’t necessarily slot into your starting XI?
Not for once second. As the title suggests, people can slow down with their linking of Lozano to West Ham because the quartet of Michial Antonio, Jarrod Bowen, Robert Snodgrass, and Grady Diangana all push a struggling Lozano completely out of contention for the Hammers. Here’s why.
Between Antonio and Bowen, the Hammers have their starting right-mid/striker covered alongside Sebastien Haller. Bowen and Antonio both bring pace in either position and as we’ve seen, it’s been Antonio up top with Bowen playing the right flank, from goal to goal. This system has had an instant impact and will likely be the go-to come next season as well.
They, we move on to Robert Snodgrass – an ageing asset who is still a dark horse in Hammer of the Year this season. The 32-year-old Scottish midfielder has aged like a fine whiskey and is capable of playing right-mid/wing or centrally at the Premier League level.
Now, mix in loaned out young baller Diangana, and you’ve got yourself a party. If we imagine Diangana wasn’t a West Ham player, judging by Moyes’ new under-25 transfer policy, his name would have a star beside it to buy come the summer transfer window. Diangana can also play on the left-wing, bringing versatility, depth, and energy to the entire pitch.
Next. West Ham midfield duo helped by Premier League hiatus. dark
Sorry, Chucky, but a poor season abroad doesn’t mean a West Ham gamble anymore, especially in the Hammers midfield or attack. With just three goals and two assists across 28 matches this season, Lozano is showing the jump from Eredivisie to a top European league has hated his production and the Hammers need proven talent, not gambles.