Recent speculation has surprisingly linked Andy Carroll, the most expensive English player ever, with a move to newly promoted West Ham United. (Source: BBC)
I just don’t see this move happening, but what do I know?
Andy Carroll has had a poor outing for Liverpool since his £35 million transfer from Newcastle back in 2010, after a series of injury set-backs, he hasn’t yet lived up to his price tag. But Carroll seems to have finally fitted into the Liverpool mould after a series of good displays for his club towards the end of last season.
And if this transfer was to go through it would be seen as a massive coup for West Ham, who bounced straight back to the Premier League after facing relegation two years ago.
But there are a few reasons which could see the Premier League’s biggest signing of the summer take place.
Liverpool suffered another disappointing season last year and have recruited a new, young manager that the Reds will be hoping to finally bring joy back to the club.
Ex-Swansea City manager Brendan Rodgers has taken charge after his fluent Swansea side impressed the whole country as they comfortably survived in their first Premier League season.
So the big question is, would Andy Carroll fit Rodger’s style of play?
Rodger’s was highly complimented with the style of play his old club produced last campaign, with many people linking it to the likes of Barcelona and Arsenal, ensuring the Swans were able to cope with the biggest teams in English football.
And many people can’t see Andy Carroll filling in, if he is to continue this way of football at his new club.
West Ham were mainly criticised last season for their ‘boring’ style of play with one main striker, in Carlton Cole, and the long ball operation in play. And for Hammer’s manager Sam Allardyce it seems to have worked.
And if they are to carry on with this system next year, then Andy Carroll would be the best man to have in their locker room if they are to survive.
Andy Carroll could also be persuaded to East London by ex-teammate Kevin Nolan, who he shared a house with in Newcastle, the pair have been good friends since their time in the North East and it could be the deciding factor whether the striker is to make the big move.
However, you have to feel that Carroll would be more inclined to stay at Liverpool and carry on with his quest for regular International football. Liverpool, under Rodgers and with the right signings, could be a real threat next season and with Carroll in the team it will only be good for his international career.
Another big factor would be how much West Ham are willing to pay for the striker, with Carroll only being at the club for just over a year and a half since his big money switch, you would like to think that the business heads at Liverpool would want to see something from the huge sum paid for him and you can’t really see the Hammer’s matching that sort of price tag.
But, only time will tell if we will see one of the Premier League’s biggest transfers this summer.
Twitter: @tom_veitch
Please follow @ThePerfectPass for more football related action!
Introducing the neat little app that’ll pay you to view content tailored to your interests:
ThisisFutbol.com are seeking new writers to join the team! If you’re passionate about football, drop us a line at “thisisfutbol.com@snack-media.com” to learn more.