West Ham could be sending Felipe Anderson off before he even returns from his prior loan. If the rumor is correct, the Hammers are set to lose out on a lot.
Sky in Italy reported on Sunday morning that former West Ham record transfer fee, Felipe Anderson, might be on his way back to Lazio. The hammers signed the Brazilian in 2018 for £34m, but after a few rough seasons, he may be on the way back for less than £9m.
Anderson came to East London riding high on hope and potential, and he hit the ground running. From being a maestro with the ball at his feet to confidently fixing his gloves while passing defenders by, he did it all. In 2018/19, Felipe scored ten times while getting five assists in all competitions. The next two seasons saw him get just two goals but tally eight assists.
In some ways, he came to West Ham on a high and exceeded all expectations. Maybe he hit the ground running too fast, as he came back down to earth after his first season under Pellegrini. He was certainly given a chance under Moyes, but he could never get it going with the Scot in charge.
More from Green Street Hammers - West Ham
- Brighton vs West Ham predictions: Can James Ward-Prowse help end the curse?
- West Ham and two Premier League rivals made huge transfer stand
- Lucas Paqueta bet allegations discussed in West Ham and Man City transfer talks
- Bournemouth vs West Ham predictions: Premier League opener amid transfer chaos
- West Ham near Denis Zakaria transfer after final James Ward-Prowse bid
West Ham could lose out on a lot from former record transfer
After a failed season and some change, Anderson’s loan spell to FC Porto was more of the same. In ten matches, he notched up one assist in all contests. In addition to a failed showing on the pitch, it was reported that he and Porto’s Gaffer were at wits-end more often than not.
Since his departure, David Moyes has solidified Anderson’s old role with Pablo Fornals and Said Benrahma. Both have complimented each other well, and before the start of the pre-season, they would see Felipe sitting in third place down the left side. As much as the Hammers will need depth, a high-priced failed attempt may not be worth the fortune he costs.
If this sale goes through, you can chalk this up with all of the other failed transfers that West Ham has attempted over the past few years. The move suits both parties, and it’s honestly sad to see, but in the end, it needs to happen, even if the fee differential doesn’t add up.