Say what you will about Mark Noble, but nobody can deny his bond with West Ham United. Turning back the clock last season, where he contributed 10 goals (including maintaining his impressive penalty record) and putting in strong performances, he embodied the spirit of the club. 

Clearly that memorable duel with Paul Pogba last year wasn’t just a one-off but perhaps more a statement of his ability to mix it with the very best. However, time clearly isn’t on his side and keeping an eyeful watch over that, Manuel Pellegrini must make a contingency plan.

Well, according to Fanatik, West Ham are apparently eyeing up a deal for Gary Medel, which in our minds, doesn't really make too much sense.

He averages 2.2 tackles, 1.3 interceptions and 2.2 clearances per 90 mins (stats WhoScored) at Besiktas which is better than Noble’s contributions (1.5 tackles, 0.7 interceptions and 0.4 clearances), but the Hammers surely don't need another defensive-minded midfielder.

Indeed, considering Declan Rice’s average of 2.9 tackles and 1.5 interceptions (thanks WhoScored) triumphs over his contribution, it's not to argue that the Irons already have the defensive side of the engine room largely covered. Clearly, there's always room for improvement, but with only an initial £30m budget (according to the Daily Star) other areas are surely more important.

Having failed to contribute to a single goal, Medel averaged 0.3 shots and 0.3 key passes per game, which clearly shows his lack of attacking impetus.  No wonder that some fans (via Hammers News) are against any move, it's not hard to see why.

Hammer fans, do you think Medel can potentially replicate Noble's heroics in midfield? Join the discussion by commenting below...