West Ham United are preparing a bid for Jonjo Shelvey to bolster their midfield ranks. David Moyes has expressed concerns over the balance of the current squad and is targeting a few central midfielders to add to the side in January.
He was quoted saying – “I think we’re short in some areas and overloaded in others. For example, we’ve got lots of forwards, but we’re really short of midfield players.”
The former Manchester United manager got appointed to lead the relegation-riddled Hammers in November. Ever since his arrival, however, things have not changed completely. They did beat title contenders Chelsea 1-0 in early December but have failed to dig themselves out of the bottom three.
Jonjo Shelvey is a talented and flamboyant midfielder who is well accustomed to the English game. Announcing his presence in the Premier League while playing for Liverpool, the 25-year-old has appeared for multiple sides over the years.
He arrived at St. James’ Park for £12m on 12 January 2016 and immediately cemented his spot in the starting XI. However, after serving a two-match suspension, he might no longer be a first-team regular.
In response to the transfer rumours surrounding Shelvey, Rafael Benitez was quoted, “No, for sure. If we don’t bring in players, it will be very difficult to lose players. Even if they are not happy, they still have to keep working and try to give the best for this team.”
The Spaniard is eager to sign new players in the January transfer window and not lose any. The Hammers will have to come up with a lucrative deal in order to land the 6-times capped England international.
Once compared to the likes of Steven Gerrard and deemed to be his successor, Shelvey’s talents are undeniable. He is as skilful as he is dominant in the midfield role on both ends of the pitch. His career, however, has taken a stumble with bouts of inconsistencies and a hot-headed attitude.
Often times falling prey to behavioural issues Shelvey has struggled to formulate a long-term relationship with any manager. However, playing under Moyes might start to change things for the Romford-born midfielder.
West Ham can be the perfect destination to display his untapped potential this season. He can easily take up the creative responsibilities with a plethora of talented strikers in front of him, hungry for quality service.
However, Newcastle might demand a high price for a player whose contract is set to end in the summer of 2021. Can the Stratford based club come up with an agreeable bid in the next few weeks?
