According to Evening Standard, West Ham star Pedro Obiang is closing in on a move to Italy, with US Sassouolo being the likely destination. The Serie A outfit are ready to fork out £8 million for the services of the Spanish midfielder, simultaneously boosting West Ham’s transfer budget this summer.
The Hammers are keen on signing another striker to complement star recruit, Sebastien Haller, this summer. But, they first need to secure a replacement for Obiang. And in this article, we will discuss three players they should consider as a replacement for the Spaniard.
Mohamed Elneny
Elneny is the latest player to have joined West Ham’s transfer wishlist this summer, shortly after news broke out of Obiang’s potential transfer to Italy. The Arsenal midfielder could be an excellent replacement for the 27-year-old.
The Egyptian international can provide energy and tenacity in the middle of the park. And this is coupled with his immense technical quality, which could enhance West Ham’s overall quality in midfield. Elneny will also be the easiest target for the Hammers as he is expected to leave Arsenal after struggling to make a breakthrough into the starting lineup under Unai Emery.
Isaac Hayden
Much has been documented regarding the future of Isaac Hayden this summer. The Newcastle United midfielder is indeed one of the best available targets for the Hammers in their bid to reinforce their midfield department.
Hayden has the work-ethic as well as the aggression that could make the London outfit much more vigilant in the middle of the park. He also has significant Premier League experience and is fresh from a relatively promising campaign that saw him playing a key role for Newcastle United last season.
However, Hayden will be relatively more difficult to get, even though the midfielder would prefer a move to London. And this is mainly due to newly appointed Newcastle manager Steve Bruce, who is adamant on keeping hold of the 24-year-old this summer and beyond.
Victor Wanyama
Tottenham Hotspur outcast Victor Wanyama will arguably the most sensible option for West Ham United. The competent midfielder has struggled with injuries during the most part of his spell at North London.
Furthermore, the Lilywhites have already roped in Tanguy Ndombele that could drastically decrease first-team opportunities for the ex-Southampton star. Hence, a move away from the club makes sense. West Ham, in that regard, could provide the Kenyan international with the ideal platform to revive his career next season.
Besides, he could add the much-needed physicality and aggression in Manuel Pellegrini’s midfield unit. But, most importantly, Wanyama can be considered as a potential alternative and even a replacement for not just Obiang but also Declan Rice – making him an ideal target for the Hammers.
