In a recent report by El Intransigente, West Ham United have been tipped to land River Plate defender Gonzalo Montiel ‘in the coming days’. The same source has claimed that there is ‘a great chance’ that the Argentine full-back would end up sealing a move to the London Stadium if the Hammers can manage to avoid relegation from the Premier League this season (translated by Sport Witness).
Montiel’s Growing Influence At The El Monumental
Montiel has enjoyed a solid season in the Argentine Superliga after producing a run of consistent displays on the right side of Marcelo Gallardo’s defence. He has featured in 20 matches for River Plate this term, picking up three assists and four yellow cards across all competitions.
In general, the Argentine’s stats are not that impressive, but when we look deep into his performances, it is easy to see why he is rated so highly in South American football. Montiel has proven his worth as an all-round talent as evidenced by his average of 2.0 tackles, 1.2 interceptions, 1.3 clearances, 0.7 shots, 1.1 key passes and 0.9 dribbles per game in league football this season (stats via whoscored).
The 23-year-old has represented the Argentine national team in four senior matches but is yet to open his goal-scoring account for his homeland. Maybe a summer move to the English capital could help him improve as a full-back next season so that he can stake a claim in Lionel Scaloni’s squad for next year’s Copa America.
What Will The Four-Time Argentine International Bring To East London?
Montiel can put his pace to good use when attempting to run with the ball out on the wide areas. He can get to the byline with ease and is also capable of creating some decent chances to score in the final third. The South American sensation has proven himself to be a reliable defender at the back as he can pull off a few vital interceptions and last-ditch clearances for his team.
The Argentine is a very talented full-back but can work on improving his end-product if he wants to become a complete package in the years to come. He will not only add more stability and creativity to David Moyes’ backline but also enhance the overall depth of his squad. Furthermore, he will serve as an excellent long-term replacement for Pablo Zabaleta and could prove to be a significant upgrade over Ryan Fredericks at the London Stadium.
West Ham will do well to land Montiel this summer as he will undeniably help them to compete for a top-half finish in the upcoming campaign. At 23, he is about to embark upon the prime years of his playing career which the Hammers could look to benefit from over the next few seasons.
