OPINION
West Ham’s busy summer has already begun by hiring Manuel Pellegrini as manager, but the focus must now firmly be on what players the club is looking to sign in the transfer window.
Pellegrini is likely to swing the axe and force out several members of the squad that have failed to meet expectations in the last couple of years, but he should also be keeping an eye on replacements.
One of those players that the Chilean should be looking to sign is fellow South American Giorgian de Arrascaeta, who reportedly could be leaving Cruzeiro this summer.
Brazilian news outlet UOL has claimed that de Arrascaeta, 23, has offers to move to Europe with Monaco and Wolves interested in signing up the Uruguay international.
The former Defensor attacker, who can play on both wings or behind the striker, is bound to shine in Russia with Uruguay in a weak group containing Russia, Saudi Arabia and Egypt.
That will surely see interest in him peak, but if West Ham can match his £26.2million release clause, then Pellegrini will be able to turn him into a household name.
De Arrascaeta is ready for the Premier League.
He is lighting-fast, versatile and has a real eye for goal.
The 23-year-old has started the 2018 Brazilian season in good form too with Cruzeiro, scoring three goals and supplying three assists in 10 appearances across all competitions.
It will cost a lot of money, but the Uruguayan will be the perfect signing for West Ham to make this summer.