Contingent of course upon West Ham staying in the Premier League, there’s apparently a lot of work going on behind the scenes to carry forward Nuno’s ‘rebalancing the squad’ that saw high earning, low contributing, ageing players shipped out in January.
Many of them have been dispatched on just short term loan deals, it has to be said, but West Ham’s starting eleven without -amongst the 12 departees- Ward Prowse, Fullkrug, Rodriguez, Alvarez Irving or Lucas Paquetá – now looks to be more fit for purpose.
In keeping with the refreshing ‘new era’ signing of younger talent, the Hammers have been linked with a summer move for Argentinian striker Santiago Castro: Thehardtackle.com write:
“Santiago Castro is the subject of interest from AC Milan…West Ham United and Nottingham Forest are also keen on signing him from Bologna this summer. Meanwhile, the Serie A club will demand around €40 million (£35 million) to part ways with the South American attacker.
West Ham have been following Castro since Graham Potter’s time at the club
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Santiago Castro has been on West Ham United’s wishlist for a long time. The continued interest is surprising, as the East London club signed Valentin Castellanos and Pablo in the winter transfer window. Additionally, recent reports have claimed that Callum Wilson will soon sign a new deal with West Ham” (although these have subsequently been rubbished – MT).
Just 21 years old, the young forward fits the profile of player Nuno is seeking to bring to the club: Survival will throw up some huge debates this summer with player sales and arrivals contingent upon balancing the books.
The thorny issue of shareholders injecting new funds should the Irons retain their coveted Premier League status will be one hot potato indeed.
To be honest, Callum Wilson as a stopgap was fine – but his sell-by date as a top-tier striker is fast approaching, as evidenced by Newcastle jettisoning him last Summer. West Ham will need to plan for a longer term vision and Castro could well be the shape of things to come.