OPINION
It has been reported in the last week by reliable West Ham insider ExWHUemployee on Twitter that Irons midfielder Josh Cullen is set to be sold by the club during pre-season – and what could be the Hammers’ loss could be West Brom’s gain.
The 22-year-old spent the first half of the 2017/2018 season on loan at Bolton Wanderers, but it now looks like he is destined for the London Stadium exit.
Josh Cullen is also expected to be sold this pre season ?
— ExWHUEmployee (@ExWHUEmployee) July 7, 2018
However, this news should have alerted Baggies’ boss Darren Moore, especially if he is prioritising strengthening his midfield this summer – and he must snap up Cullen as a result of this revelation.
With 37-year-old Gareth Barry’s contract having ended this summer, along with youngster Sam Field having signed a new deal to extend his stay at the Hawthorns, West Brom are crying out for a player to expand their depth in this area of the park.
Field is a talented prospect and has been rewarded for his efforts, but he should not be expected to take up the momentous task of controlling the centre of midfield by himself.
Chris Brunt is 33-years-old and could well be leaving the club soon, which only leaves Jake Livermore to aid Field in the midfield.
The Baggies have an abundance of wingers on their books which is fine for their attacking threat, but their lack of central midfielders is an issue.
Cullen may have not had the most successful spell at Bolton, but his addition would provide the depth that Moore needs to solidify his midfield in the long-term, given he is only 22.
He should be considered by Moore as a star for the future, and as a player who can help aid their promotion bid – and the manager should snap him up to ensure his team have the depth to compete for this aim.