OPINION
With the injury list mounting up at West Ham United, there is no doubt that Manuel Pellegrini already has one eye cast on January’s transfer window.
Why wouldn’t he? The midfield is by far the worst hit department – Andriy Yarmolenko, Jack Wilshere and Carlos Sanchez are currently sidelined – so it makes sense to make a smart signing in the New Year.
That smart signing should come in the shape of Galatasaray player Fernando, who used to star for Manchester City a couple of seasons back.
He was sold by the Premier League winners last year, but he is still performing at a high-level with the Turkish giants and has 64 top-flight appearances to his name from his time in England.
His physical presence would add the extra steadiness to the midfield that has been missing since the injuries, and his technical ability and vast experience would put him head and shoulders above the rest.
This is a potential signing that could have the likes of Mark Noble quaking in his boots, and what’s more, Pellegrini knows him rather well during their time together at City.
This is why the manager should plot a reunion with the 31-year-old, as he could be the smartest signing they make in the January window.
He could even establish himself as a better signing than players like Sanchez anyway, with his experience with Manchester City giving the team that extra edge.
His combination with the likes of Declan Rice would be a sight to behold given the rave reviews about the youngster, and together they could make West Ham a formidable defensive unit.
Pellegrini can wow the supporters with an acquisition such as the proven ace, as he is just what the Chilean is looking for.