OPINION
West Ham must ensure they win the race for Marseille’s Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa as he is exactly what they need.
La Provence reported that the Hammers were one of four Premier League clubs interested in the 22-year-old midfielder, with Newcastle United, Watford and West Bromwich Albion also interested.
The Baggies, according to the French newspaper, bid £13.2million to try and sign him last summer, but Marseille rejected their offer.
Since WBA were turned down, Anguissa has flourished at the French giants putting in the performances needed to see his side climb to third in Ligue 1.
The defensive midfielder, who can also play as a central midfielder, has made 37 appearances across all competitions for Marseille this season.
Given his importance to the French club, he will no doubt garner a big price, but it’s a fee worth paying when you consider he can fix all of West Ham’s issues.
The Hammers have shown this season, due to several injuries, that they’re in need of midfielders.
As Anguissa can play equally as well in two positions in midfield, he will help aid their simple need just to field capable players by his versatility.
Also it’s easy to see that West Ham struggle in midfield at times this season, due to playing aging players in that area.
Mark Noble and Pablo Zabaleta have been David Moyes’ midfield pairing of choice to try, in order to give his side the best chance of dominating the midfield battle for West Ham as of late.
However, while their no nonsense style has given them some success, as soon as they come up against a team with pace, the pair are both left eating their opponents’ dust.
Anguissa, no doubt helped by the fact he is only 22-year-old, has showcased his ability to run for a full 90 minutes for Marseille and isn’t often beaten in a foot race.
The midfielder’s young legs would bring some much necessary youth to a West Ham side, that should be building for a bright future.
The final issue that the Hammers have, that has left them only four points clear of the relegation zone, is their ability to concede goals easily.
West Ham have let in 46 goals in 27 league game, and despite Moyes improving them at the back since taking over, they’re still desperately weak when it comes to stopping goals.
Anguissa is tough in the tackle and his presence in midfield, whatever role he plays, adds an extra layer of protection to his side’s defence.
The 22-year-old’s presence would instantly improve West Ham’s ability to stop conceding goals as he would plug a gap in the team.
Therefore, the Hammers must ensure they beat their Premier League rivals to his signature as he is capable of single-handily fixing their immediate issues.