West Ham United have broken their bank and are close to making Manuel Pellegrini the highest paid manager in the history of the club after they parted ways with David Moyes early last week. The former Manchester City manager is already planning for life at West Ham and is linked with some exciting stars for a move this summer.
One player inching closer to a move to London is Yaya Toure.
Pellegrini Link Could Help West Ham Land Toure
The Ivory Coast international is out of a contract and will be a free agent before the end of the transfer window. He has been linked with a move to clubs like Everton and Burnley previously but The Telegraph have today claimed that Pellegrini, who is set to be named as West Ham’s new manager, could help the club sign Toure this summer.
The Hammers were previously reluctant to meet his wage demands but the manager’s relationship with Toure might see them give in. So is this move a productive one for the club?
Toure And His Numbers
Winning two La Liga titles and UCL title in his three-year stint at Barcelona, the 35-year old joined Manchester City after the then Barca boss Pep Guardiola decided to let him go. He took no time to establish himself at Etihad, making 35 league appearances in his first season, winning the FA Cup that year.
He went on to win three league titles in England, including the 2017-18 season where he made just one league start in the campaign. Named as the African footballer of the year for four consecutive years, Toure is one of the best and most decorated midfielders in Europe in his prime.
At 35, he is no longer a regular starter but his experience will give the West Ham players a certain lift. He can also fit seamlessly into the midfield under Pellegrini, and if used wisely, could still be a genuine match winner.
Where Does He Fit In
The Hammers have a decent squad but do not have too many midfield options. Mark Noble and Chiekhou Kouyate have been used regularly by Moyes while Pedro Obiang remains the only other option in this role.
Toure can add balance and creativity to the midfield and can come off the bench and make a difference in crunch games. West Ham need established players and though the City man is well beyond his prime, he still can have a decent influence on the squad. As a free agent, he is well worth the wages West Ham will have to pay but do you think he will have an impact on the club?