In a recent interview with Football insider, former Leeds United player Paddy Kenny tipped West Ham United to land Arsenal forward Eddie Nketiah this summer. Kenny said,
“West Ham have needed a backup striker since January.
“I think it has cost them in the end because Antonio has dried up and his fitness is always in question anyway.
“If they have the opportunity to sign Nketiah on a free, well, he’s already in London. I imagine they are favourites.
“West Ham is a massive club as well, with a massive fan base. Any player would be lucky to go there.
“For me, it’s a great signing and it would be a brilliant piece of business if he comes on a free.
“I think he’s perfect for what they are looking for.”
Nketiah’s Up And Down Campaign At The Emirates Stadium
Nketiah has played a bit-part role for the Gunners this season but has still managed to catch the eye at times over the past few months. The English sensation has registered nine goals and secured one assist in 26 matches for the North London outfit during this campaign across all fronts.
The 22-year-old proved himself to be a decent contributor in the final third despite making most of his appearances off the bench. Nketiah is averaging 1.3 shots, 0.5 key passes and 0.7 dribbles per game in the Premier League. He has even linked up play well with his teammates in the opposition half, as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 78.8% in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
What Will Nketiah Add To West Ham United Boss David Moyes’ Team?
Nketiah excels at creating a yard of space for himself to get a few shots in at goal. He can be a good finisher in front of the opponent’s goal when he is playing well on the field. Plus, the English talent can even make some dangerous runs with the ball in behind the opposition defence.
A striker of Nketiah’s potential will be a decent acquisition for the Hammers during this summer transfer window. We can expect the Arsenal forward to offer some serious competition for Michail Antonio at the London Stadium in the coming seasons.
At 22, the best is yet to come from the 17-time England Under-21 international. Thus, West Ham head coach David Moyes would be wise to move in for Nketiah when he becomes a free agent at the end of this campaign.