Javier Hernandez or ‘Chicharito’ as he is popularly known, has been a linked with a move away from the club for quite a while now and after the latest admission by the club that they had no plans to extend the 28-year old’s contract which runs out in the summer of 2018. But they wish to cash in on him instead of letting him go off on a free transfer.
The Mexican has scored only five goals in 15 Bundesliga games this season as part of a Leverkusen squad that has largely underperformed, with the club’s sporting director, Rudi Völler, going as far as to suggest the striker had to step up his game because the team “need a Chicharito who functions.”
And given the public admission of the club and the fact that Bayer are not in the best shape, the player might be open to offers from around the world. He has promised a lot but could not really make the next step to be classified as a star at club level. And Hernandez would welcome a final opportunity on the biggest stage.
Let us take a look at three possible destinations for Chicharito.
WEST HAM UNITED
Things went from bad to worse for the Hammers last night as City mauled them 5-0 in the FA Cup 3rd round. Currently 13th in the table, mainly thanks to 3 wins against relegation contenders, they need to strengthen in January to have any chance of finish respectably. The Hammers have been unlucky in their pursuit of a striker. And having failed with multiple bids for the likes of Lacazette, Dembele and a few more, they could test the waters with a bid.
STOKE CITY
The Potters seem to have given up on Bony, whom they got on loan from City. While he surely has the potential, things haven’t fallen into place. With Crouch, Walters and Diouf as the alternatives, it is clear they don’t have a viable long-term option up front. They seem to be financially secure and it shouldn’t be a barrier. Chicharito will surely make the likes of Arnautovic and Shaqiri even more productive.
EVERTON
Ronald Koeman has most done positive things ever since coming on board in the summer and it is clear that his work in terms of transfer is not over. There are expected to be additions all over the pitch but one area which hasn’t been spoken about too much is their striking options. Lukaku is their only recognised forward and even his future is always clouded. Someone like Chicharito will give another dimension and the two of them will be a real handful for any team.
