Despite a disastrous start to the 2018-19 season, West Ham United scripted an upsurge in the later weeks to secure a top-half finish in the Premier League standings. Manuel Pellegrini has done a commendable job overall shaking off the early confusion and should now be aiming for a place in Europe following a summer spending splurge.
The Hammers have been linked to new names pretty regularly. But they might have to rival the other suitors to rope in prime transfer targets, and according to the Daily Star, they are set to face competition from Bayer Leverkusen for the Fulham striking sensation Aleksandar Mitrovic.
The big Serbian had a decent return (with 11 league goals in 37 outings) in the English top tier with the Cottagers. Although his goals were not enough to avoid a relegation misfortune, Mitrovic’s scoring traits and movement in and around the box exemplify the qualities of a traditional ‘number 9’.
The 24-year-old has a bright career road ahead and is highly unlikely to return to the Championship after guiding his current employers to a top-flight return on completion of a winter loan move from Newcastle United the season before.
Mitrovic was a wrapped up from Anderlecht for a fee of around £13m back in the summer of 2015. In spite of exhibiting glimpses of his quality, the youngster had a difficult time in Tyneside and eventually lost his place following the arrival of Rafael Benitez as the new Magpies chief.
But a January switch to Fulham last year saw him justifying the hype having notched up 12 goals in 17 outings. His boisterous run convinced the Lilywhites to complete a £27m (including add-ons) swoop, but the demotion might see him depart this summer amid interest from a host of top division outfits.
West Ham have parted ways with their striker duo Andy Carroll and Lucas Perez. They, therefore, are chasing a centre-forward to spearhead their attack and have reportedly (Daily Mail) made Celta Vigo ace Maxi Gomez their preferred target over the others. But a hefty asking fee and interest from Spain might see them switching their focus elsewhere and therefore; they must step up the chase for Mitrovic to strengthen the frontline furthermore.
The Serbia international has ample experience in England, and his build suits the demand of Premier League football. He would be benefitted by the Irons wing-play and long-ball strategy and should have a proper chance to showcase his physical as well as aerial supremacy high up the pitch.
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