West Ham are trying to sign Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Carlos Soler in this transfer window. Also, the Hammers want to sell set piece specialist midfielder James Ward Prowse, with only three days remaining in the summer transfer window. West Ham want a new box-to-box midfielder, who can create chances from the build up play alongside winning ball possession as well.
Therefore, Julen Lopetegui's side want to sign Soler, who can create several key passes as well as help Guido Rodriguez and Edson Alvarez while defending. However, in this transfer window, West Ham were trying to sign former Celtic midfielder, Matt O'Riley to improve their midfield. West Ham didn't made an official bid to sign O'Riley and he later joined Premier League team Brighton.
Should West Ham have signed Matt O'Riley this summer
O'Riley has been in brilliant form for Celtic, as the midfielder contributed in 37 goals for Brendan Rodgers's side last season. Thus, eyebrows were raised among a large action of fans as the Hammers didn't try to sign O'Riley, who joined Brighton instead. Now, the Scottish playmaker, made his Brighton debut in the Carabao Cup, but, just six minutes into his debut, O'Riley had a knee injury and had to be substituted off.
Speaking about the injury to O'Riley, Brighton manager Fabian Huerzeler, said,
"For me it is a clear red card. You can’t tackle like this but you can play hard and you can be ruthless. In the end I hope Matt is not so badly injured like it looks but we have to wait for a scan of his ankle."Fabian Huerzeler
Hence, O'Riley is sidelined for six months and Brighton will be looking to sign another young midfielder on a season long loan to replace the former Celtic star. Meanwhile, West Ham are trying to complete the signing of Carlos Soler to provide more competition and depth to their midfield.