In a recent segment on Youtube, journalist Jorge Nicola claimed that West Ham United could make a move for Sao Paolo midfielder Pablo Maia. It has been mentioned that the Hammers will have to rival Fulham in the race to land the Brazilian youngster.
Maia’s Impressive Rise In Brazilian Football
Maia has established himself as an important member of Sao Paulo’s squad over the past couple of years. The 21-year-old has already been involved in 80 senior matches for the Brazilian outfit this season, scoring four goals and earning one assist in various competitions.
The Brazilian sensation has been a positive influence at both ends of the field based on his average of 2.2 tackles, 1.0 interceptions, 1.0 clearances, 0.8 shots, 0.7 key passes and 1.0 dribbles per 90 minutes in Brasileirao. He has even taken care of the ball when distributing it from midfield, as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 88.2% in the Brazilian top tier (stats via whoscored).
Maia is under contract at Sao Paulo until the end of 2027. Therefore, the Hammers will have to make a good offer if they want to lure him to the London Stadium this summer.
West Ham United Eyeing A Move For Maia: Is He A Prospect For The Future?
Maia loves a tackle and can time his challenges well to secure the ball back for his team in the middle of the park. He usually clears his lines when needed and has got the vision to create some inviting chances for his teammates in the opponent’s half.
The Brazilian sensation is a technically gifted footballer who can make some clever runs in the final third. He is primarily a defensive midfielder but can also function as a box-to-box midfielder or play in the number ten position if asked to do so.
Maia has got the potential to become one of the best players in his position someday. Thus, it makes sense for West Ham boss David Moyes to engineer a move to bring him on board this summer.
At 21, Maia has already showcased what he can do in Brazilian football. Hence, there is no doubt that he is a prospect to watch out for in the future.
The Hammers should focus on getting a deal done for him in the upcoming transfer window as he has what it takes to become a future star at the London Stadium.
