In a recent report, The Guardian stated that West Ham United are keen on signing Ajax striker Georges Mikautadze this summer. It is understood that the Hammers are showing interest in securing the services of the Georgian forward in this summer transfer period.
Mikautadze’s Impressive Loan Spell At Metz
Mikautadze enjoyed a decent loan spell at Metz recently as he put in a run of productive displays for them in Ligue 1 last season. The Georgian attacker found the back of the net 13 times and grabbed four assists in 20 league matches for the French club last season.
The 23-year-old was a reliable performer on the offensive end of the field and deserves credit for averaging 2.9 shots, 1.1 key passes and 2.1 dribbles per game in Ligue 1. However, he lacked quality when distributing the ball in the final third based on his pass completion rate of 74.7% in the French top flight (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at his parent club Ajax will run out in the summer of 2028 which could make it tough for West Ham to snap him up on the cheap later this year.
Should West Ham United Boss Julen Lopetegui Go For Mikautadze?
Mikautadze is proficient at creating some space for himself to get a few strikes in at goal. He can be a good finisher in the final third when he is playing with confidence on the field. The Georgian talent can even create the odd chance for his teammates up top and is a decent dribbler with the ball at his feet. He is primarily a centre-forward but can also serve as a left-sided wide player if told to do so by his manager.
We can expect Mikautadze to bring more quality to West Ham head coach Julen Lopetegui’s attack. He is good enough to lead the charge for the East London club every week in the Premier League next season. However, it remains to be seen whether he can make a smooth transition to life at the London Stadium.
At 23, Mikautadze has the potential to be a world-class forward someday. Therefore, Lopetegui would be wise to go for a player of his skillset before the end of this summer transfer window.
