MY ACCOUNT
West Ham are already planning to add to their squad this summer — though David Moyes has hinted that the East London club are unlikely to spend big.
Improvement is crucial for the Hammers after a season in which they have flirted with relegation.
With that in mind, they will be looking for free agents to bolster their ranks.
As the Irons prepare to face Leeds, we take a look at several options for them to consider.
Race for Reiss
Top of the list is Arsenal winger Reiss Nelson.
The 23-year-old has scored three goals, assisted two, created seven chances and completed seven of his nine take-ons in just 172 league minutes this season.
He has provided crucial moments when called upon, including a 97th-minute winner against Bournemouth, after which Mikel Arteta praised the forward.
Arteta said: “I always saw the potential, the talent and the desire for him to do it but he’s at a different level right now. I think emotionally, the experiences that he had helped him.”
Dangerman Dembele
West Ham’s top scorer in the Premier League this season is Said Benrahma with six goals, outlining the need for a natural finisher and Lyon’s Moussa Dembele is available.
He has only started eight games in Ligue 1 this term, scoring three times.
But the 26-year-old did net 21 goals in the 2021-22 campaign and a change of scenery could be the perfect way to get his career back on track.
Rice replacement
With Declan Rice set to move on from West Ham, Porto’s midfield general Mateus Uribe could help to fill the void.
The Colombian is an exceptional passer, averaging 52.59 passes, 7.22 long balls and 6.41 passes into the attacking third per 90 minutes this season.
Off the ball, he is equally strong, winning 1.69 tackles and making 1.81 interceptions per 90, so he would be a sensible addition.
Hammer in Van Hecke
West Ham could also do with adding a young centre-back and Jan Paul van Hecke would be a steal.
The promising Brighton 22-year-old has only made 10 appearances this term but had a brilliant stint with Blackburn last season, winning their Player of the Year award.
In a rare start against Stoke in the FA Cup last Feburary, Roberto De Zerbi was impressed.
He said: “I’m really, really happy for JP because he is improving and he is in progress.
“For me, when I have to decide the first 11 it’s not easy. A player who is playing well from not much time on the pitch, that is satisfaction for me.”
Lively Leeds
West Ham welcome Leeds to the London Stadium for a vital clash in the Whites’ fight for Premier League survival.
Sam Allardyce’s side came away with a crucial 2-2 draw against Newcastle last time out and will be desperate for three points.
After booking their place in the Europa Conference League final on Thursday night, Moyes’ men will be eager to continue to build positive momentum.
That could carry them to a trophy in Prague and an exciting window of transfer activity this summer.
