In a recent report, Tutto Mercato Web has revealed that West Ham United are showing interest in Graziano Pelle, who is currently a free agent after being released by SD Luneng at the start of this year. It is believed that the Italian centre-forward’s future will be more clear next week with the Hammers hoping to land him during this January transfer period (via Tutto Mercato Web).
Pelle’s Excellent Career In China Recently
The recent departure of Sebastien Haller, who joined Ajax earlier this month, has left David Moyes short of options in his attacking department. Currently, West Ham have got just one senior striker in Michail Antonio, so they will do well to convince Pelle to complete a move to the London Stadium this month.
Pelle enjoyed a successful spell in the Chinese Super League after banging in 63 goals and earning 24 assists in 133 matches for SD Luneng. However, he has not played competitive football for a long time, so the jury is still out on whether he can maintain his high standards in the coming seasons.
The 20-time Italian international has previously proved his worth in the Premier League where he scored 23 goals in 68 appearances during his time at Southampton. Therefore, David Moyes would be wise to give him a chance to show what he is capable of in English football once again but this time, in a more reserved role as Michail Antonio remains West Ham’s primary source for goals.
What Will The Italian Striker Add To David Moyes’ Team?
Pelle can use his strong 1.94m frame to win a lot of headers for his side but lacks the pace to run the channels in the final third. He has got the experience to be a consistent goal-scorer at the highest level and might still have a few good years left in his locker to play at a good level.
The 35-year-old is a potent goal-threat from the offensive set-pieces due to his dominance in the air. He can get himself into some promising positions and usually quite clinical in front of the opposition goal.
Pelle will undeniably add some goals to the Hammers attack and give them a physical edge inside the opponent’s penalty area. The Italian forward needs to get back to full fitness soon because he has what it takes to serve as a decent squad player at the London Stadium.
All in all, Moyes should consider offering Pelle a short-term deal as he will increase competition for places within the West Ham squad and bring a winning mindset to the East London outfit. At 35, father time is catching up with him, so he won’t be a long-term fix to Moyes’ goal-scoring worries if the Hammers can get a deal over the line for him this month.
