OPINION
West Ham should do all they can to finally land Keita Balde in January after being handed a huge boost in their pursuit of the Senegalese international.
The winger is currently on loan at Inter Milan from Monaco, but the Italian club’s readiness to terminate his current loan deal could facilitate a move to the London Stadium this winter.
Balde has struggled to make an impact in Milan, scoring just twice so far this season, and it is believed that Inter wish to cut his stay in Italy short to free up space in their squad, according to Tutto Mercato.
The Hammers have registered interest in the winger before but could have to pay a fee of £4.5 million to secure his signature until the end of the season, as well as the possibility of stiff competition from Wolves.
Balde’s failure to impress at both Monaco and Inter Milan could be seen as a cause for concern from West Ham fans, but Manuel Pellegrini is an experienced manager with a level head and if he is of the belief that the wide man can improve his squad then that decision should be trusted.
It wasn’t too long ago that Balde was linked with a £30 million move to Tottenham, and a player of his calibre does not lose that kind of quality overnight.
Beyond Marko Arnautovic and Felipe Anderson the Hammers have struggled for creativity at times this season, and with the side languishing in 13th after a promising summer of spending, a player of Balde’s reputation could prove to be the statement of intent they need to make to kick on and start climbing the table.