OPINION
West Ham United cannot afford to hang around in their reported pursuit of Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere with so much interest in the playmaker.
Everton, Wolverhampton Wanderers, and Fulham are all in the running for the player’s signature, as claimed by the Daily Star, while the Gunners have offered a £80,000-a-week take it or leave it contract offer, according to The Guardian.
The 26-year-old, who is out of contract this summer, has been the subject of much speculation from potential suitors who have all taken a liking to his attacking mindset.
Arsenal are unlikely to let one of their star assets go without a fight, and Everton will be keen to ensure they bring in some top talent this summer in order to appease their supporters who have been unhappy with the team’s lacklustre and negative style of play.
However, under Manuel Pellegrini, the England international, who stands at a diminutive 5’6″ (source: Transfermarkt) has the potential to prosper.
Not only would he be linking up with Manuel Lanzini and Marko Arnautivic in attack, in what would be a formidable forward line, but his capture would prove that the Hammers are serious about actually competing in the Premier League next season instead of dallying with matters at the foot of the table.
With so much interest in the player around, they cannot afford to hang around and dither over making Wilshere their first signing of the summer window, for he is likely to be poached as soon as a decision over his future is made.
There are not many talents out there who are available on such a reasonable deal and the lack of transfer fee could offset what are likely to be hefty wage demands.
The Hammers need quality this summer, and Wilshere could offer them exactly what they are looking for.