The West Ham United fans in the Transfer Tavern are excited by rumours which are linking their club with a move for Felipe Anderson, but recent reports suggest Manuel Pellegrini has a bigger task to complete before signing the Brazilian.
The Hammers have been heavily linked with Lazio’s highly-sought after winger in recent days as the club look to make a statement of intent ahead of the new season. According to the Daily Mail, West Ham have had a £33 million bid rejected for Anderson.
However, whilst the Hammers hierarchy have been expressing an interest in players from outside the club it appears they have failed to focus on their most important summer task: keeping their best players at the London Stadium.
According to a report from The Times, Declan Rice has turned down a contract extension with the club because the offer did not match his wage demands. After establishing himself as both a first-team regular and a crucial component of the club’s survival bid last season, it seems surprising that West Ham have failed to make a suitable offer to secure his future.
Whether West Ham have become complacent or Rice has begun to believe his own hype is something which only figures behind the scenes will know. It could be a combination of the two factors but, regardless of the reason for Rice’s rejection, Pellegrini and the rest of the club’s hierarchy must work to find a solution to the problem which has presented itself.
Based on the mightily impressive performances and exemplary attitude Rice demonstrated last season, it’s fair to say the 19-year-old could blossom into a future club captain at the heart of defence. He is a player who consistently leads by example and puts his body on the line for the club, so there’s no doubt he could eventually lead the club with further experience at the top level.
With that in mind, West Ham must ensure that they swiftly conclude negotiations and agree terms with Rice over a new deal, as the top-six clubs will certainly be monitoring his situation whilst just 1-year remains on his current deal.
West Ham fans – thoughts? Let us know below!
