OPINION
When Marko Arnautovic was substitute at the London Stadium on Saturday lunchtime, the signs did not look good for West Ham fans hoping he will stay at the club.
The Austrian appeared to wave to fans as he left the field and headed straight down the tunnel at full-time rather than celebrating with his teammates at full-time following their 1-0 win over Arsenal.
Maybe it is over-analysation of a situation, but with rumours persisting about his potential departure to China, the omens are not good – especially given his brother’s suggestion that the forward is keen to go to the Far East, as reported by talkSPORT.
If the 29-year-old is to leave, the Hammers will need to find a replacement, and Genoa striker Christian Kouame could be the ideal man.
Much has been made of the Ivorian’s free-scoring teammate, Krzysztof Piatek, this season, but the 21-year-old has also impressed immensely, and could be the perfect candidate to spearhead the Irons’ frontline.
A well-rounded frontman, he is capable of holding up play effectively, but is not afraid of running the channels as well, and could be the kind of versatile weapon a side like West Ham, with their European ambitions, are crying out for.
The dazzling young forward has been involved in eight goals so far this season, scoring three and assisting five, and could be the answer to West Ham’s prayers.