West Ham United have reportedly taken an interest in out-of-favour Manchester City midfielder, Yaya Toure. The Hammers seem to be set on signing Manuel Pellegrini in the coming weeks, the former boss of the Ivory Coast international, which might lead to the transfer taking place in the summer.
Toure has been allowed to feature in occasional cup games and as a rotational substitute option ever since Pep Guardiola took charge at the Etihad. The 35-year-old reeks of top-flight experience and yet does not have much of a future under the ex-Barcelona manager.
Such was not the case under Pellegrini, under whom Toure had his best days as a footballer. He commanded the midfield in City’s title-winning 2013/14 season and gave them a solid structure from the centre of the pitch. Long gone are the days since the veteran was hailed as one of the best midfielders of the Premier League.
Spending just 882 minutes on the pitch is not ideal for a player of Toure’s stature who evidently still has a few years of football left in him. However, Manchester City are already stacked with top-quality talents including the likes of Ilkay Gundogan and Fernandinho and is close to getting one of the prestigious names like Fred or Talisca.
Guardiola’s incredibly fast-paced offensive style of football, which demands a ridiculous work ethic from his players, does not seem to have a place for players like Toure. The Ivorian has the experience and technical ability to fulfil his duties but not the legs to see out an entire 90 minutes day-in-day-out.
West Ham, on the other hand, could do with a hugely experienced player to drive their midfield in the coming season. Former manager, David Moyes had already made aware of the imbalance in the United squad that was somehow hindering their progress.
Joao Mario’s contract has not been permanent yet as Inter Milan confirmed their place in next season’s Champions League last night. Mark Noble alone cannot hold the fort down from the centre while also trying to set up his team’s offence.
Cheikhou Kouyate has lacked consistency and could do with some competition to get his perspective in order. Pedro Obiang has been shockingly poor often looking lost in his post and clueless.
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If the Hammers plan on improving their performances for the coming season, they will have to figure out a way for the midfield to tick. The side also lacks a competent winger who will be able to supply from the wide areas and it should be Pellegrini’s top priority to find a good one for his new team apart from signing Toure.
