West Ham has options aplenty as they seek a new midfielder
West Ham and David Moyes still have time to get a few deals done as the season begins. One of those options is looking for depth in the midfield area.
It’s never been a secret that West Ham is still very much in love with Jesse Lingard, and why not? Last season while on loan, Lingard put up massive numbers for the Hammers (9 goals and 4 assists). However, since his loan has ended, the star has not aligned to return to the East End.
Manchester United Gaffer has hinted that the 28-year-old has a place for the Red Devils, but it’s tough to see where with their already boisterous midfield and the recent addition of Sancho. David Moyes’ assistant, Stuart Pierce, had this to say about the English International:
"“The ball is in Manchester United’s court. He is contracted to them. We would like him with us, there is no doubt about that. He’s a special lad and was very good around the players – the players really like him.”"
After an intelligent preseason and opening weekend, West Ham’s midfield has looked excellent, but they lack depth. There’s no telling if Jesse Lingard would jump right back into the starting XI or if he would need to fight for his spot, but either way, he would be an awesome signing and one that the Gaffer really wants to get done.
West Ham has options aplenty as they seek a new midfielder.
The Hammers are heavily linked with massive talent in the number 10 role from one international to another. Two days ago, The Sunday Mirror suggested that West Ham was offered the opportunity to sign Brazilian international Philippe Coutinho. The Barcelona ace has been riddled with injuries and poor form over the past few years but is still exceptionally talented.
Since arriving in La Liga, Coutinho has only had one season where he played over 30 matches. Bringing in Philippe might be a stretch, but it’s not unreasonable.
The finances behind a potential deal for Coutinho would undoubtedly prove to be tricky, to say the least. The Sunday Mirror (print edition August 15th, page 74) has claimed that David Moyes and the Hammers would only have to cover 60% of his £7.7 million per year wages. That works out at roughly £88k weekly if our math is correct, which is more than doable for West Ham.
Next. West Ham offered the chance to sign Philippe Coutinho. dark
Philippe Coutinho could be another David Moyes success story, similar to Jesse Lingard, but once again, it’s a massive gamble for the club. Both midfielders are similar in age and storyline, but the option seems there for the Hammers. They don’t need an immediate starter, but either one of these No.10’s would be a great depth piece as the Hammers near their European competition.