According to a recent report by the Daily Mirror, West Ham United are plotting a fresh move to secure the signature of West Bromwich Albion centre-forward Salomon Rondon during the summer transfer period. The Hammers boss Manuel Pellegrini has identified the Baggies star as an ideal striking option after missing out on Celta de Vigo striker Maxi Gomez in this off-season (via the Daily Mirror).
Rondon’s Impressive Spell On Loan At Newcastle United
Rondon had an outstanding season on loan at Newcastle where he became a favourite among the fans after he put in a string of goal-scoring performances in the Premier League. His incredible contributions helped the Magpies steer clear of the relegation zone in the previous campaign. The 29-year-old enjoyed a rich vein of form under Rafael Benitez’s tutelage, but he has now gone back to the Hawthorns where he still has a year remaining on his contract.
The South American sensation managed to score 12 goals while providing seven assists in 33 appearances for the Magpies in the last term across multiple competitions. Rondon also has a vast amount of experience at the international level after featuring in 77 matches for Venezuela while registering 24 goals for them so far.
At 29, the Baggies striker still has a long way to go before he decides to hang up his boots, so recruiting him could be a good, short-term option for the Hammers.
What Will The Venezuela International Bring To East London?
Rondon is a lethal presence inside the opposition penalty area when he is playing with confidence on the field. The former Newcastle striker still has enough pace under his belt to run the channels and cause a lot of problems for the opposing defenders in the final third. He also doesn’t shy away from setting up his teammates when they are in a better goal-scoring position, which explains how he managed to earn seven assists in the English top-flight last season.
Is Rondon An Ideal Choice For The Hammers?
The Venezuelan frontman will be a perfect signing for Pellegrini as he could be a prolific goal-getter at the London Stadium. Furthermore, he will also be an ideal replacement for Marko Arnautovic, who is inching closer towards a move to China this summer (via talkSPORT).
Hence, the Hammers should try everything they can to bring the Baggies striker back to the Premier League this summer.