According to the Telegraph, West Ham United’s desperate need for reinforcements in various positions after a horrific start to the current season has brought them to Chelsea’s talented young midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek. An unusual friendship between Slaven Bilic and Antonio Conte has led to both the clubs inquire about players of each other.
Loftus-Cheek is the club’s most highly-rated young player, but a January loan deal could be considered if he remains stuck on the sidelines. The English midfielder has appeared only twice for Chelsea this season, both in the English League Cup. And now with Chelsea out of the EFL cup and the team not in the Champions League this season, the Blues won’t be playing so many matches. Therefore, they could actually afford to loan out Loftus-Cheek in January.
After an impressive 7th place finish last season, West Ham United have struggled to find their form in the league this season. Slaven Bilic’s men have failed to find their hold and are currently sitting just above the relegation zone in the 17th position. Things have just not clicked for Bilic this season with most of the new recruits failing to adapt to the play and seasoned players losing their form.
The Hammers have lost 6 games already this season winning only 3 and conceding 20 goals. Their star players are already linked with European giants outside England.
Loftus-Cheek is a towering midfielder and could be a more than decent option for the Hammers after most of their fresh recruits are either down injured or out of form. Loftus-Cheek has very strong dribbling and finishing skills that have drawn attention. He excels in the box to box role and West Ham could do with a player like the lad.
His physicality also gives him a big edge over most opponents on air. He has the ability to produce impeccable through passes from the deep midfield. The player is sure to have a bright future.
West Ham’s midfield has been unsettled and the consistency has been lacking. Hammers’ captain Mark Noble has also been out of touch so far. Although Noble has been decent with his passing, his defensive contributions have been minimal with him winning only 49% of the average duels. Pedro Obiang, who partners with Noble has also seemed clueless at times.
Loftus-Cheek is very likely to have an impact at both ends of the pitch and could turn out to be a smart short-term buy for the Hammers.
