Things are getting from bad to worse for the Hammers. After their horrific start to the Premier League campaign, which now sees them having a paltry total of 11 points and in the 17th place, just above the relegation zone, their best player Dimitri Payet has recently hinted at exiting the club.
While talking to French TV show Telefoot, Payet expressed, “We’ve had a very poor start. Leave in January? I’m asking other questions right now but I’ve closed the door to nothing… Until now, I always chose my clubs depending on the sports project. I work like that. Until I can play at a level like this, it will be the case… Go to PSG or Marseille? For now, they have not come to me, so I do not ask myself.”
The French international hasn’t yet able to show his previous sharpness in front of the goal this season. But still, has managed to score 1 and bag 4 assists in 9 appearances and has by far been the Hammers’ best attacking outlet.
The 29-year-old late bloomer, who joined West Ham United from Marseille in 2015, was the driving force for the Hammers in the previous season. He continued his superb form in Euro 2016, scoring 3 and creating 2 goals in 6 appearances for France. But since then, his form has dipped and he doesn’t look that lethal in front of the goal.
His form has much to do with West Ham United’s transfers season this summer. After being linked with a host of top players, they could land Simone Zaza, who has been terrible, to say the least.
With Payet considering moving out, many clubs are on red alert. He has also recently been included in the Ballon d’Or list which is a testament to the impact he had in his first season at England.
Although the Hammers are adamant to holding on to the player, which was proven by Payet signing a new five-and-a-half year deal worth £125,000-a-week last January to remain at the club, things could go south now.
T4O looks at 3 potential destinations for the French winger.
PSG
The French giants are known to be a great admirer of Payet and will be more than ready to pay his price. Although, Payet would still have to fight the likes of Lucas and Di Maria in the ranks to become a first-team player. But the hard-working right winger will be more than ready for the task.
It is quite obvious for a player of his stature to have high ambitions and what better place to fulfil those than cash-rich PSG. He would be playing regular in the Champions League and have a more realistic chance of winning the league.
Arsenal
We know Arsene Wenger’s fondness for French players. He will play with the likes of Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil in the midfield among many of his French colleagues. Although it looks a distant possibility, but Payet could really flourish in the North London club.
He is already accustomed to the league and its hectic schedule and he could easily make the first team. He would have to compete with the likes of Theo Walcott, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Alex Iwobi, which looks comparatively easy.
Arsenal have recently tried out Sanchez in a striking role and that means Payet could well be the first choice on the left if he signs for the club. He is at his peak, and let’s face it, Arsenal would offer him the chance to fight for Silverware!
Atletico Madrid
It seems by far the best destination for the Frenchman. Considering, his speed on the ball, work rate, passing accuracy and attacking mindset, he looks tailor-made for Diego Simeone. Atletico are going through a rough patch and would surely like a catch like Payet in the January transfer window.
With Alessio Cerci injured, Payet could easily compete with Angel Correa and Nico Gaitán. Payet’s build makes it easy for him to survive the physical demand in La Liga as well.
