According to L’Equipe, as cited by GFFN, West Ham United have agreed to a €40 million move for Eintracht Frankfurt striker Sebastien Haller. It is believed the Hammers are set to hold talks with regards to the player’s personal terms this weekend, with Willie Mckay playing a central role in negotiations.
The report further claims that Frankfurt have already sent out their agents to find a replacement for Haller, which suggests that the talks could end in favour of West Ham.
Haller is one of the most dangerous attackers in the Bundesliga
Haller initially moved to Eintracht Frankfurt in a €7 million move from FC Utrecht back in 2017, becoming the most expensive signing in the club’s history during that time. But, the Frenchman did exceedingly well to repay that faith, notably scoring as many as nine goals in his debut campaign in the Bundesliga.
Haller’s services in front of goal helped Eintracht win the DFB Pokal under Niko Kovac, but the 25-year-old upped his game to a whole new level in the recently concluded 2018/19 campaign. Indeed, the former Utrecht striker scored 20 goals across all competitions.
He built a formidable attacking partnership with Ante Rebic, Filip Kostic and Luka Jovic that made the Eagles one of the most feared teams in the Bundesliga as well as the Europa League last season as they notably reached the semi-final of the coveted tournament, only to be beaten by eventual champions, Chelsea.
What can he offer to the table?
A centre-forward by trade, Haller is known for his all-round qualities in the attack. He has a tall 1.9m frame that not only gives him a considerable advantage in terms of aerial duels but also makes him an intimidating presence inside the penalty box. While it does affect his overall mobility, he is still quite agile and is capable of playing quick one-twos with teammates.
The Frenchman also has an excellent sense of positioning that allows him to be at the right place at the right time. And the fact that the 25-year-old is always looking to press the opposing defenders is what makes him such a dangerous and useful striker to have.
Can he replace Arnautovic at West Ham?
If Haller manages to replicate his performances in the Premier League next season, he could be an upgrade over Marko Arnautovic. The Eintracht Frankfurt can provide a better physical presence in the final third, and he can sense scoring opportunities as well.
Although he may not be as mobile as the Austrian international, Haller’s work-ethic coupled with his physical and aerial attributes, could make him a massive coup for the Hammers.
