COMMENT
West Ham have made it clear they want to improve their side in the transfer window, with two new arrivals already walking through the door.
With Mark Noble’s early admission that he expects summer additions, Hammers’ fans will be waiting to see if their club adds to the introductions of Roberto and David Martin.
The latest name to be linked to the club was that of Marseille midfielder Kevin Strootman, with Sky Sports revealing the Dutchman had been offered to a trio of Premier League clubs.
A move for Strootman would be a great piece of business by Manuel Pellegrini, who could add great international experience to his midfield for a cheaper price.
This is after Strootman admitted in an interview with AD that his current side are looking to get rid of him after missing out on Champions League football. Strootman said: “So in a conversation, the president has open and frankly: you are an expensive force and without Champions League that is difficult for us. So they want to get rid of me, is the message.”
At 29-years-old, the experienced midfielder was a mainstay in Ligue 1 this season and could offer West Ham a great option to rotate with Mark Noble throughout the season. Strootman made 34 appearances for his club this season, scoring one and assisting five goals. His passing ability and desire to make a tackle would be a perfect introduction in the Hammers’ midfield.
The only sticking point of a potential deal is Strootman’s desire to play Champions League football. Should West Ham be able to convince the 43-cap international, they will find themselves in a much better position that they were in last season.
This chance should not be passed up on and Pellegrini must push hard to secure this signature or face the risk of coming up against him in the Premier League next season.