Journalist Pete O’Rourke has suggested that West Ham United should look at signing Philippe Coutinho in the summer.
Coutinho is on loan at Aston Villa from Barcelona after former teammate Steven Gerrard acquired his services in January.
The Brazilian has impressed so far for Villa since signing, in his six appearances he has scored twice and registered two assists, according to Transfermarkt.
According to Spanish sources, the Hammers are interested in welcoming the Brazilian to the English capital.
O’Rourke has spoken to GIVEMESPORT after the rumour emerged and dubbed Coutinho as “world-class” whilst talking about how he would improve the Hammers squad.
“Somebody like Philippe Coutinho would definitely improve West Ham’s squad. He is a quality, world-class player,” O’Rourke suggested.
TIF Thoughts on Philippe Coutinho and Pete O’Rourke’s comments…
Coutinho’s move to Villa was arguably a surprise, but when his former teammate came calling, it may have been hard for him to turn it down.
The Brazilian was magnificent for Liverpool during his first stint in the Premier League, he featured 152 times, scored 41 goals, and registered 35 assists.
It could be argued that things haven’t quite gone to plan since he left Anfield but he could still be a large improvement to any side as he shows signs that he still has world-class capabilities.
As West Ham look to push on as a club and seek their highest Premier League finish this campaign, by bringing in talent like Coutinho, this would be a great step in the right direction, as the Hammers look to become an established European side.
By bringing in this calibre of player, it could not only attract other players to follow suit, but it could also increase the chances of Declan Rice staying at the club, who has been linked with a move elsewhere and he may want to play with the best players around week in week out.
Interestingly, the midfielder has been more lethal in front of goal than Jarrod Bowen this season, with his goal conversion percentage standing at 14% compared to Bowen’s 13%, though he has played considerably less often.