According to Haberturk, West Ham United are among the clubs eyeing a move for Florian Aye this summer. The Clermont Foot forward has been one of the most impressive strikers in Ligue 2 this season, attracting the interest of a host of clubs across Europe. West Ham is a potential destination, but the Hammers could face stiff competition, with Southampton and Leeds United also interested in his services this summer.
Florian Aye’s excellent season at Clermont
Since joining Clermont Foot from AJ Auxerre for a fee of just €400k last summer, Aye has become a revelation under Pascal Gastien. The 22-year-old has netted as many as 17 league goals in only 35 matches. He ended the campaign as Ligue 2’s fourth highest goalscorer, behind Gaetan Charbonnier (25), Habib Diallo(22) and Pierre-Yves Hamel (19).
Aye’s impressive goalscoring tally was critical to Clermont’s excellent season that saw them finish in the top half of the league table. As far as gameplay is concerned, Aye can be compared to someone like Alexandre Lacazette. A tall and fast individual, who relies heavily on his movements and the team’s overall chance creation. He is an opportunistic striker, who would pounce on the slightest of mistakes by the opposition.
Aye is quite strong in the air as well while his physical prowess allows him to keep hold of the ball even under intense pressure. Furthermore, the young forward is blessed with technical quality, meaning he can link-up with his teammates in the final third.
Where will Aye fit into West Ham?
West Ham will be preparing for a massive overhaul in the attacking department this summer. The likes of Andy Carroll and Javier Hernandez both have an uncertain future at the club. As a result, the Hammers are on the lookout for a new striker in the market.
Aye, in that regard, will be an exciting candidate. The young Frenchman is equipped with a specific set of traits that could help him thrive in the Premier League under the tutelage of Manuel Pellegrini. And at the age of 22, he could be a smart long-term investment for the Hammers.
There is risk involved as well
While Aye is brimming with potential, his lack of experience could be a problem for West Ham. In fact, the 22-year-old is yet to play a single game in the French top flight. And given the difference in quality between Ligue 2 and the Premier League, it could be difficult for Aye to integrate to the fast-paced nature of English football.
Hence, there is certainly some risk involved in West Ham’s pursuit of this highly talented Frenchman, who may not be ready to make the next step in his career.
