After going all out in the transfer window 12 months ago, and seeing many of their recruits struggle to make an impact in the Premier League, West Ham have been a lot more relaxed in the transfer window this term- with Pablo Zabaleta currently standing as their only recruit.
The Hammers have made significant moves behind the scenes though, securing manager Slaven Bilic and key-man Michail Antonio down to new contracts, and it appears that Argentine ace Manuel Lanzini will follow suit- handing the Hammers a perfect platform to build on.
Following a disappointing debut season at the London Stadium though, it’s clear that West Ham need to strengthen their ranks this summer and many fans on social media have started to get impatient by the lack of movement from their side. However, it appears that’s finally changing.
The Telegraph reports West Ham are closing-in on a loan deal for England international Joe Hart, who spent last season with Torino having been ousted from Manchester City by Pep Guardiola, and the significant addition of Eng;and’s number one between the sticks would provide a real boost.
Last year both Adrian and Darren Randolph looked shaky at times, whilst relegated Middlesbrough have been attributed with interest in the Hammers 30-year-old Irish international; although West Ham have been willing to play ball so far.
Signing Hart, a player who has a lot to prove following his axe from Guardiola, would certainly push the squad in the right direction but, admittedly, it’s not a signing who could change the Hammers’ fortunes on his own and further deals are required.
Co-chairman David Gold spoke publicly about West Ham’s desire to sign two new strikers this summer and the Hammers have made moves to sign Stoke City’s Austrian international Marko Arnautovic, who’s handed in a transfer request in Staffordshire.
The BBC reports West Ham have already seen a bid in the region of £20m rejected by their fellow Premier League side but it’s understood that the Hammers will return with a new offer, with the general consensus being that this is a deal that can be reached.
Another striker would be needed alongside Arnautovic but it’s certainly a step in the right direction for West Ham, who ideally need to strengthen their squad immediately to allow new recruits to settle into the club- as the start of the new Premier League season is now less than a month away.