After a dream season under Slaven Bilic, there was only one player’s name on the lips of the Hammers as Dmitri Payet emerged as a sensation who had the potential to elevate them to the top of the table easily. Innumerable stunners, lots of free-kicks and the ability of a world-class player he’d made the last season at Upton Park a memorable one.
While a player like him performs his heart out and gets popular in probably the elite league of the world, top clubs do start watching the progress and by this time, the West Ham fans would have been well used to the rumours flying in and out. Manchester United and Paris St. Germain were well linked but Arsenal have now emerged as the front runners.
For a player like Payet, this might as well be his peak and he is of course well suited to represent a top club. Statistically speaking last season alone, the chances the Frenchman created was 116 in 30 appearances according to Squawka which is an absolutely massive amount.
His average accuracy of passing was hovering over the 80% mark which is brilliant for any midfielder and he pitched in to score vital goals as well (9). In an injury laced campaign that West Ham are suffering, Payet is vital even though his performances aren’t at last year’s level, he’s managed to create 47 crucial chances already in 12 appearances which speak volumes about his ability to be a creator.
Add him beside the already shining Alexis Sanchez or Mesut Ozil, Arsenal would have definitely added immense quality in the attacking sector. This would mean that Oxlade Chamberlain’s or Walcott to start will be less but if Alexis is promoted to be a centre forward like he has this season, there is every chance that Payet will start at the left and this attack would be deadly.
It is said that Arsene Wenger is a huge fan of the player and West Ham would have to consider a bid if it’s well matched. West Ham are struggling this season and are amidst a relegation battle and Payet has said that he will keep his options open and it would be only wise to move if a top club comes calling. If Arsenal are looking to add to the depth and looking to push for the title, no player will be more targeted than Dmitri Payet and the French connection between Wenger and Payet would be another factor. Arsenal must move early, though.
