West Ham United linked with a move for in-demand La Liga forward: A SWOT Analysis

West Ham United are keen to secure the services of Celta Vigo striker Maxi Gomez, it has been claimed. 

According to Guardian, the Hammers are ready to trigger a £43 million release clause for Maxi Gomez as they look to bolster their attacking department this summer.  However, they could face stiff competition, with league rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool also keen on Gomez.

But what can he add to the table for Manuel Pellegrini’s side? Here is a detailed SWOT analysis of this highly talented Uruguayan international.

Strengths

Gomez is largely known for his physical prowess and commitment. Much like fellow countryman Edinson Cavani, the 22-year-old is not intimidated by strong defensive presence, always trying to commit himself into physical or aerial challenges.

Gomez can be resourceful as well, using his hold-up qualities to free up space for his teammates. This has led to the Uruguayan mustering five assists in the league this season. He has also averaged almost one key pass per game, which is quite impressive for a centre-forward.

His biggest strength, however, is his lethal finishing as the 22-year-old has already plundered as many as 31 goals in just 71 league matches since joining Celta Vigo in 2017.

Weaknesses

Passing is something Gomez will certainly need to improve on if he is to thrive elsewhere. Despite his excellent hold-up play, the Uruguayan often struggles to rotate possession and quickly combine with fellow teammates in the final third.

Another huge weakness in his game is his lack of defensive work-rate. Gomez rarely tracks back, which could be an issue for Pellegrini who likes to implement a pressing game which will require high work-rate.

Opportunities

Gomez will be an excellent addition for West Ham United. He has the quality to replace the likes of Javier Hernandez or Andy Carroll and become their main centre-forward.

His proficiency in aerial challenges will allow Pellegrini to utilise him as a target-man while his physical prowess will help him hold up the play and open up spaces for the likes of Andriy Yarmolenko and Felipe Anderson.

Given his age, he has a lot of room to improve and if it is under Pellegrini, then the Hammers can certainly be assured of a star forward in their ranks for the foreseeable future.

Threats

There are no significant downsides to Gomez’s potential move to West Ham. But, it remains to be seen whether or not he will able to make the transition from La Liga to the much more robust and fast-paced nature of Premier League.