In a recent print edition (November 19, Page 9), AS has stated that Real Madrid forward Mariano is set to decide his future amid interest from West Ham United ahead of the January transfer window. It is understood that the Hammers target will make the final call on whether to stay at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium or leave when the transfer window reopens at the start of next year (via AS).
Mariano’s Disappointing Spell At Madrid
Mariano has endured a frustrating season at the Spanish capital so far as he has missed several matches due to tonsillitis.
The one-time Dominican Republic international went through a tough campaign in the last term when he scored just one goal in seven matches across all competitions. Frequent injuries have disrupted his development under Zinedine Zidane’s stewardship over the past 18 months.
Mariano has fallen behind the likes of Karim Benzema, Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, Luka Jovic and Eden Hazard in the Bernabeu pecking order. Thus, he should consider switching clubs in search of more game time during the winter transfer period.
What Will The Brazilian Striker Add To David Moyes’ Team?
Mariano possesses decent pace that allows him to get past his marker in the final third and usually packs a lot of venom with his strikes on-target. However, he is not a good dribbler as he often tends to lose possession when the opposition defenders outnumber him.
The Spanish sensation has got a great leap in him, which helps to win his fair share of aerial duels and can be a real handful for the opposition defenders. However, Mariano needs to be more lethal as far as his finishing is concerned in front of the opponent’s goal.
Should The Hammers Move In For Mariano In January?
At the moment, Moyes needs to focus on signing a new forward this winter so that he has a decent back-up to Michail Antonio, who has excelled at leading the line at the London Stadium recently. However, the form of Sebastien Haller has been poor, to say the least. Mariano could be a useful addition as he will add more pace and physicality to West Ham’s frontline.
However, his poor injury record and lacklustre form in terms of scoring goals will be cause for concern for any of his potential suitors, including the Hammers. All in all, Moyes will be better off opting for a more proven forward and not take a chance on an injury-prone Mariano, who is clearly not having the most productive of seasons in Spain.
