According to Sky Sports, Celta Vigo striker Maxi Gomez is keen to move to West Ham amid reports linking him to a move to Premier League this summer. It is believed that the Hammers are yet to agree personal terms with the player, who has a release clause of £43.3 million, although Celta did accept a £29 million bid from the Premier League club last month.
Maxi Gomez’s productive spell at Celta Vigo
Gomez has enjoyed immense success in La Liga following his £3.6 million move from Defensor back in 2017. The Uruguayan scored as many as 19 league goals in his debut campaign and has followed that up with an impressive 13 goals in 35 matches in the recently concluded 2018/19 campaign.
His exploits in front of goal have helped Celta survive the wrath of relegation, with the Celticos finishing just four points atop of relegated Girona. The forward built an excellent offensive partnership with Iago Aspas, though the ex-Liverpool star’s excellent goalscoring tally somewhat overshadowed Gomez’s attacking contribution.
What can Gomez bring to the table?
Gomez, in many ways, can be compared to his compatriot Luis Suarez. Much like the Barcelona superstar, the 22-year-old heavily relies on his physical prowess in order to sustain pressure from opposing defenders while his heading prowess makes him a threat from set-pieces. Four of his 13 goals last term came from headers.
He is also known for his intelligent movements, and his passing game has significantly improved in the recent season, which is why he has built an excellent partnership with Aspas. Another key aspect of Gomez’s game is his willingness to test the ‘keeper, having averaged 2.3 shots on goal per game last season.
Is Gomez a good option for West Ham?
Gomez will be an excellent replacement for Marko Arnautovic, who has been a subject of major transfer speculation in recent weeks. Although the Uruguayan may not be able to offer as much dynamism as the West Ham forward, his imposing figure, coupled with his heading prowess could make him a tailor-made fit in the physically astute nature of the Premier League.
The Hammers also have an impressive creative line, especially with Manuel Lanzini back to full fitness as well as the recent addition of Pablo Fornals. And this could serve Gomez well given his goal poaching traits. Hence, the Celta Vigo striker could be an ideal number nine for the West London giants as they aim to kickstart a new era under Manuel Pellegrini next season.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
