First highlighted in February, West Ham have rekindled interest in a former Europa Conference League opponent who impressed during the Hammers’ triumphant cup run: Anderlecht were overcome 2-1 in October 2022 but one of their youngsters impressed – whilst he was still just 18 years old.
“Anderlecht attacking midfielder Mario Stroeykens is on West Ham’s radar.” Read the report we highlighted earlier this year. Fast forward to May with the approaching window -and Stroeykens has not signed a new contract: The young Belgian has only one more year on his deal to run so it would be sensible for Anderlecht to cash in now rather than let him leave on a free next year. Again news of West Ham’s continuing interest popped up earlier today, reported by dhnet.be:
“A lively summer awaits Mario Stroeykens (20 years old). Despite his injuries in the second round, Anderlecht’s midfan [midfielder] is highly coveted on the transfer market…West Ham is one of them [the interested clubs]”
Most Read on West Ham News
At twenty years old and proven already on the international stage, this exciting young prospect for the Hammers is a bit of a steal now at €20 million – just £17 million -and would make a fabulous addition to West Ham’s midfield. He’d transform the dull, donkey-like performances at the heart of the team next year: Partner him with Freddie Potts and the Hammers could be -relatively speaking-electric.
The contrast between the deadly dreary double pivot we’ve had to endure this season and the young, pacy livewire prospect which could start in August could not be greater. Exciting times this summer providing Potter and Macauley can get their man.
The number of young fast twenty-ish midfielders being linked with the Hammers can only spell better times for next season. You’d hope.