In ten days-time the fixtures for the 2018 / 2019 season will be officially released.
Before we know where we are, the World Cup will be over, and the new season will be looming large on the horizon.
With a new manager at the helm, we’re expecting a flurry of transfer activity, with Manuel Pellegrini bringing in some new faces to boost the squad.
But what are Pellegrini’s priorities?
According to one tweet we stumbled upon, the Chilean is looking at the back five:
Manuel Pellegrini is focused on strengthening West Ham’s backline and goalkeeper positions in the transfer window.
[Source: @IndyFootball] pic.twitter.com/p5xKLoiD0N
— West Ham News (@WHUFC_News) June 2, 2018
Is this the area of the team you perceive to be the weakest?
But with Adrian the only keeper currently in the first team squad, it would explain why one of the three goalkeepers going to the World Cup, is a perceived West Ham target:
West Ham have made a formal enquiry for Stoke goalkeeper Jack Butland. The Championship side want £30m for him.
[Source: @MailSport] pic.twitter.com/eqJ8ysqMJm
— West Ham News (@WHUFC_News) June 2, 2018
Butland, in our opinion, would be a great acquisition, even if the price might be a little steep, but perhaps negotiations could see the wanted fee reduced.
But, it’s not all about the back-five, it also seems that Pellegrini wants to hold on to Javier Hernandez.
The Mexican had a disappointing first season at West Ham, after joining the club last summer.
West Ham are trying to get Chicharito to commit to the club, as Manuel Pellegrini wants to keep him and give him a “key role” in his team.
[Source: @ExWHUemployee] pic.twitter.com/1Rcn8jYwwN
— West Ham News (@WHUFC_News) June 2, 2018
Perhaps, Pellegrini has a game-plan that will suit Hernandez’s needs.
But, are you of the opinion the striker is someone who can add something to our game next season?
All-in-all, I’d suggest things are looking up for the Hammers, we’re realistic enough to know most of the names put forward in transfer speculation won’t become a Hammer, but it’s nice to have something to focus our discussion on isn’t it!
COYI’s