According to a report by West Ham insiders Claret and Hugh, the Hammers are eyeing their first major piece of January business as Tomas Soucek’s representatives are in talks over a new contract.
The Lowdown: Soucek essential to Moyes
Since his arrival at Rush Green, Soucek has played a vital role in David Moyes’ successful run at the club. In the East-London club’s emphatic 2020/21 Premier League campaign, the Czech star played in all 38 league games, scoring ten goals from a defensive midfield position.
Soucek joined the Hammers on loan in the January 2020 window from Slavia Prague. Impressing during this stint, West Ham enacted the £15 million fee agreed in the temporary deal, adding to the £4 million loan fee Slavia had already received.
Financially, the Irons’ investment has already more than doubled, with the Czech Republic captain’s value soaring up to an incredible £40.5 million.
However, the partnership formed between Soucek and Declan Rice is far more valuable than anything that could be gained by a departure.
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The Latest: Irons in contract talks
According to a report by club insiders Claret and Hugh, Soucek’s representatives are currently in talks over a new deal.
Currently, the midfielder has two years left, with the option of an extra two years. However, contract talks are being held on the basis that he will receive a substantial salary increase with a new fixed four-year deal.
The Hammers have not signed a single player yet this month, but it's fair to say this could be the most crucial piece of business they do.
The Verdict: Show him the money
Rice himself has reiterated how important Soucek is to Moyes’ West Ham side, having named him their player of the season following his ‘unbelievable’ form in the Premier League last year.
West Ham would certainly not be short of bidders if the two parties failed to come to an agreement on a new contract, but with the possibility of huge bids arriving for Rice this summer, the club have realised how important it is for Soucek to be nailed down by a new long-term contract.
Losing Rice would be a huge blow for the Hammers but additionally losing Soucek would completely destroy the spine of this West Ham side, meaning Moyes would have to start from scratch all over again.
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