According to The Irish Sun, West Ham United are keen on securing the services of Leon Maloney. The Portsmouth winger has attracted the interest of a host of top clubs across Europe including Chelsea and Ajax. The Hammers are also vying for his signature. Maloney currently plays for the Portsmouth U18s but is tipped to play a vital role for the first team in the coming seasons.
Who is Maloney?
Maloney impressed the onlookers with his performances in the youth leagues. He scored as many as 26 goals for Pompey’s academy side last season, which made him one of the most sought-after talents in the English lower divisions.
The 18-year-old is primarily a midfielder but has predominantly featured as a winger during the 2018/19 campaign. As his record suggests, Maloney has a knack for scoring goals. His ability to get inside the box and get on the end of crosses are ideal characteristics for any successful Premier League attacker.
The Portsmouth youngster has already shown that he is capable of playing at a higher level. As a result, manager Kenny Jackett has taken steps to promote him to the senior side prior to the start of this new season. But, his future at the club remains uncertain, especially with Ajax having unique plans for the teenager.
Should West Ham make a move for Maloney?
While both Ajax and Chelsea have shown a keen interest in the services of Maloney, West Ham, too, has emerged as an attractive suitor for the youngster in the upcoming season. Although, it is unlikely that the 18-year-old will be drafted into the West Ham senior side right away, yet his presence in the U-23s will surely enhance the club’s strength in reserves.
Besides, the Hammers have struggled with injuries to their star attackers under Manuel Pellegrini. Hence, they will surely welcome the addition of a young gun like Maloney, who is capable of becoming a real asset for the club within the coming years.
A move to West Ham might not make much sense for the player
Maloney will be keen to move to a club, who can offer him an ideal platform to further strengthen his game. West Ham, in that regard, may not be the most logical destination, especially when Ajax are interested.
The Dutch outfit are proficient when it comes to nurturing young talents, and it is believed that Wim Jonk holds him at high esteem. They also think that the youngster has the natural ability as well as the potential to become a world-class player.
