West Ham United could look to offload Manuel Lanzini and bring in younger replacements in the near future, according to former BBC pundit Noel Whelan.
The Lowdown: Lanzini a West Ham stalwart
The Argentine has been a great servant for the Hammers in recent years, proving to be one of the most creative and exciting players at the London Stadium since his arrival in the Premier League seven years ago.
Lanzini has scored 30 goals and registered 27 assists in 210 appearances for West Ham, winning the Players' Player of the Year award in 2016/17.
However, the 29-year-old's current deal expires at the end of this season, and there currently appear to be no plans to extend his stay in east London. Indeed, it was reported last week that the Irons plan to offload the long-serving midfielder.
The Latest: Pundit talks up possible Lanzini exit
Speaking to Football Insider, Whelan claimed that West Ham could indeed look to bring in younger alternatives and allow Lanzini to leave on a free transfer.
The 47-year-old stated:
"I think if the club are looking to get rid of Lanzini to bring in some younger players and trying to bring in a longevity and stability – I think West Ham will want fresh blood.
"He’s done a great job, but they’ll want someone who can go longer for their success now."
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The Verdict: Time to move on soon?
There is an argument to say that Lanzini has drifted a little past his peak now, with David Moyes not necessarily him as a regular anymore, starting him in just one Premier League game so far this season.
Indeed, having earned WhoScored ratings of 7.00 or higher in each of his first three seasons at the club, Lanzini has not done so since 2017/18 and has even sunk to 5.93 so far this term, a sign that he may be on the wane.
As he approaches 30, it could make sense for him to have one last campaign at West Ham before moving on to enjoy a fresh challenge next summer instead of extending his stay in east London.
It doesn't make too much sense to offer an ageing player who is already on £70,000 per week a long-term contract when there could be younger alternatives out there who can have a more lasting impact at the London Stadium into the future.