West Ham were left frustrated in their attempts to sign Leander Dendoncker in January and despite claims by the London Evening Standard that the Hammers intend to try again in January, there’s still a chance they won’t be able to get a deal over the line before next season, too.
If there’s one fan base in the Premier league that always feels short-changed by its owners, it’s West Ham (although Newcastle might be in there with a shout). The Hammers have rescued their season somewhat, but are certainly not clear of the relegation scrap, which seems remarkable given the size of the club.
Just one of their summer signings has had the intended impact, with Marko Arnautović currently in the form of his life, halted only temporarily by injury. David Moyes is desperate to add another midfielder to his ranks, and despite Dendoncker publicly saying he would like to move to West Ham, there is a growing sense that Anderlecht are not going to lower their price enough to get a deal done.
Here are three players the Hammers could turn to instead…
Abdoulaye Doucouré, Watford
Watford fans may feel a little aggrieved by this one, but given the success of Arnautović, poached from Stoke last summer, it wouldn’t be surprising to see West Ham hunt for their midfield man within the Premier League.
Doucouré has been somewhat of a revelation at Watford this season, and has even drawn interest from Spurs. The French midfielder has been brilliant as a defensive midfielder for the Hornets, and has even got himself involved on the attacking end.
He has the strength and pace required to compete in a Premier League midfield, and the passing ability to aid the Hammers attack. He also averages over two tackles per game in the league this season, which is actually better than Dendoncker.
William Carvalho, Sporting CP
This probably feels a little familiar to Hammers’ fans, as Carvalho’s name has cropped up as a potential target more than once. Still, it’s easy to understand why, as Carvalho has developed from one of Europe’s young stars to one of its sturdiest midfielders.
More of a classic defensive midfielder than Doucouré, Carvalho would offer complete protection to Moyes’ defence. His languid style is often mistaken for laziness, but his reading of the game and physical style make him a force to be reckoned with in the middle of the park.
Carvalho could be pricey, but with his power and eye for a pass he could be worth it.
Fabián Ruiz, Real Betis
Ruiz is a different mould of midfielder to the two mentioned above, but could be the missing ingredient needed in the Hammers’ midfield. A fantastic dribbler and passer, the 21 year-old has excelled in Betis’ midfield this season after a loan spell at Elche.
His recent performance against Real Madrid caught plenty of eyes, bossing the first half in an almost effortless manner with his control and passing, although Betis did fall apart after the break.
Ruiz recently signed a new contract with Betis, so any move for the midfielder would likely be a pricey one, but if Moyes could manage to convince the youngster to join he could be a fan favourite for years to come.
