West Ham have launched an £18 million bid for Andre Gomes, according to the Times.
The 29 cap Portuguese international spent this season on loan with Everton from Barcelona, but it is understood that they Toffees have no option to buy in their deal.
As such, the 25-year-old is available this summer, and it is believed that the Hammers have made an approach to keep him in England on a permanent basis.
Good move for West Ham?
Yes. Gomes really grew into himself in England last season, and after a rocky start, he became one of Everton’s key men. He is a classy, mobile central midfielder, able to pick a pass and not afraid of a bit of aggro either. In short, he can turn his hand to just about anything, and would provide a really decent option for Manuel Pellegrini in the middle of the park. £18 million, if it is enough to land him, would be a bit of a steal as well. This would be a great move.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10
Likely to happen?
If Everton have no option to buy in their deal for Gomes, then it’s open season. The midfielder is clearly surplus to requirements at Barcelona, and the Catalan giants aren’t going to care about sentimentalities or how much Goodison Park loves the player. Barca will care about money and money only. If the Hammers can get in early, land a knockout blow, and then convince Gomes that they can be just as favourable a destination as Merseyside, then why shouldn’t it happen?
This is Futbol rating: 7/10