Two wins in the last three games will give West Ham United some momentum going into the summer transfer window. There are a number of stars constantly linked with a move to West Ham and the latest name the club is linked with is Stoke City star Xherdan Shaqiri.
Shaqiri Scramble In PL:
With Stoke City relegated, a number of first team stars might be up for grabs this summer but none more attractive than the Swiss international Shaqiri. The 26-year old reportedly has a meagre £12m release clause in his contract, that can be triggered now that his team is relegated and this has seen a number of top-flight clubs show interest in his signature.
Everton and Crystal Palace are looking to lure Shaqiri this summer but West Ham are also in the mix. So should they go all in for him?
A Steal At £12m:
In the current transfer market, it is almost impossible to find quality players, even backups, at just over £10m. But West Ham can land one of the most exciting stars in England at the moment in Shaqiri at that price, which will be an absolute steal.
After picking up just four goals and an assist in 21 PL appearances last season, Shaqiri has found some consistency and was the best player for The Potters this season. He has eight goals but was not able to keep his side in the top flight. However, he definitely belongs at the highest level and deserves to play next season in the Premier League.
A gifted footballer, with great vision, Shaqiri is a match winner, who can produce something out of nothing. He can not only dribble through defences, or find teammates in space in front of goal, but is also adept at beating even the best shot-stoppers in the world, from long range.
He has underachieved so far in England but playing with better players around him will only make him better. At just 26, he is still to hit his prime as a footballer and is just the kind of a player mid-table teams in the Premier League would love to have on their side.
Where Does He Fit In?
While The Hammers usually sign players who are strong in the air and are physically assertive, Shaqiri brings a completely different dimension to their game and could be a game changer. With Marko Arnautovic already playing as false-9, Shaqiri can come in from the right flank and can add fluidity to this West Ham attack.
He can also play in the no.10 role or as a false-9 role and his previous experience in the league will only help him become a better player.
Stats Courtesy: Whoscored