According to Claret & Hugh, West Ham United have turned their attention towards Isaac Hayden after the apparent deal for Andre Gomes broke down. The report believes that the Barcelona midfielder is closing in on a move to Everton. As a result, the Hammers have set their sights on Hayden, who is being considered as their desired alternative for Gomes.
But, is the Newcastle midfielder really a viable alternative for the Portuguese international? Let us take a look at some of the factors that might help us decide as to whether or not Hayden will be an ideal target for West Ham this summer.
Providing creative support
West Ham’s biggest weakness has been the lack of productivity from their central midfielders. While Declan Rice’s success in the holding midfield role has already been well documented, the Hammers have struggled with injuries to their creative midfielders in Jack Wilshere, Manuel Lanzini and Samir Nasri.
Hence, providing creative support in attack will be Manuel Pellegrini’s number one requirement from a central midfielder. And that’s where Hayden lags behind Gomes, who is, of course, a technically gifted midfielder. The Portuguese international can swiftly rotate possession and bring others into the play. His impressive passing range enables him to create opportunity even from a deeper role.
Hayden, too, is decent when it comes to providing the creative support, having notably averaged almost one key pass per game. That being said, he is largely a defence-oriented midfielder, who likes to win back possession and keep things solid in midfield.
Athleticism and work-ethic
Athleticism is key to Pellegrini’s footballing philosophy and especially from midfielders, given their importance in providing pressure on the opponents and creating turnovers in the middle of the park. Hayden definitely has the upper hand in this aspect, thanks to his robust style of play. Indeed, the 24-year-old is adept in winning the ball back for his team and can initiate swift counter-attacks.
Gomes, in contrast, has very little defensive work-rate and his positional awareness during defensive stances is often questionable. He is also not a very good runner and is prone to losing his stamina when employing a high octane press.
Premier League experience and ease of signing
Hayden’s vast experience in the Premier League could be the deciding factor should West Ham opt to make a move for the Newcastle midfielder this summer. The 24-year-old has made 51 appearances in the English top flight and almost 100 appearances for the Magpies in all competition. He is also available for a reported fee of £15 million.
As for Gomes, he has enjoyed only one good season in the Premier League and is likely to cost over £25 million given how Barcelona rejected West Ham’s £18 million proposal for the midfielder last month. Hence, Hayden would be a smart addition to West Ham. Even though he may not be a like for like alternative for Gomes, the Newcastle star will certainly be able to provide that spark in defence and could potentially reinvigorate the West Ham midfield.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
