OPINION
While other clubs are waiting patiently to pounce this summer, West Ham chose to make a lightning fast start to their transfer business and get the players that Manuel Pellegrini wanted in as soon as possible.
Seven new senior arrivals might be enough for some people, but it does not look like the Chilean manager is ready to stop splashing the cash any time soon – and why would he after making so many exciting new signings at the London Stadium.
So just where else does the former Manchester City boss look to strengthen before the window slams shut in a couple of weeks?
Well, Italian newspaper Gazzetta claim on their website that the Irons have held initial talks with Serie A side Torino about a potential swoop for former Watford attacker M’Baye Niang – just weeks after he had a loan spell turned permanent thanks to a pre-arranged clause.
A versatile forward with explosive speed, Niang’s career has stalled somewhat after being tipped to be one of the brightest talents in world football, but at 23-years-old, he still has plenty of time to get back on track.
More importantly, he could be the man who can give Pellegrini the X-factor that is needed next season, using his pace, technique and cutting edge to bolster a Hammers side who were lacking just that last season.
The Irons just could not find someone to spark them into life, and be it David Moyes’ tactics or the players’ own abilities, it left them vulnerable.
Niang is the sort of player who can turn the game on its head in a single moment, and while his goal scoring record leaves something to be desired for a man who plays as a centre forward, it is the impact he can have on the entire team which makes him a worthwhile swoop.