OPINION
West Ham boss David Moyes faces a crucial summer as he looks to bolster his squad for a run at the top half of the Premier League, and one area that badly needs strengthening is in attack.
The Hammers by no means have the worst attack in the bottom half, but if they want to be pushing towards a top-ten finish and even begin to entertain European qualification, then strengthening up front is key.
As reported by the Gambling Times, the Hammers are interested in a summer swoop for Stoke City attacker Xherdan Shaqiri, who looks set to move on from the Potters this summer.
The 26-year-old dazzler would be a great addition to the Hammers front line, with his pace and directness to add another layer to their sometimes one-dimensional play.
Shaqiri has shown during his time at Stoke that he has what it takes to compete in the Premier League despite his diminutive 5ft 6in frame, with the Switzerland international regularly scoring stunners for the Potters.
That X-factor that Shaqiri brings to Stoke would not go amiss at West Ham, with the speed demon also able to link up with former teammate Marko Arnautovic.
That elite striker partnership could end up being lethal for the Hammers, and the duo could well play a big part in leading the club out of the relegation mire next term.
With the Potters looking nailed-on for relegation – Paul Lambert’s side sit in 19th on 28 points, five points adrift of safety – Shaqiri will no doubt be available on a cut-price deal this summer.
West Ham must pounce to secure his signature in what could be a transfer masterstroke from David Moyes as he looks to enhance his growing reputation in east London.