West Ham United are keen on bringing in reinforcements for their midfield sector this summer and are apparently interested to sign Isaac Hayden from Newcastle United.
It has been claimed by Chronicle Live that the Hammers have their sights set on Hayden as an alternative option if they fail to lure Barcelona midfielder Andre Gomes to the London Stadium.
Manuel Pellegrini’s camp have already seen their bid of £18million for Gomes getting brushed aside by the Spanish giants and as of now, they are waiting to hear back on their new offer of £20million.
Their second bid is likely to be rejected as well as Barcelona reportedly want between £25million and £30million. At the moment, Everton are believed to be in the pole position to secure his signature.
Notably, Hayden had made it clear last month that he is determined to leave Newcastle United United due to personal reasons and it would not be easy for the Magpies to keep him at St. James’ Park for another season.
Isaac Hayden: Profile
Hayden spent his youth career at Southend United and Arsenal and while he was on the books of the latter, he spent a loan spell with Hull City to gain first-team experience as well.
However, he wasn’t able to impress Arsene Wenger considerably and was allowed to leave. He joined Newcastle United in the summer of 2016 and helped them in securing promotion to the Premier League in his first season at the club.
The 24-year-old mustered 25 appearances in the Premier League for the Toon last season in which he managed to score 1 goal and register 4 assists. Besides, he has also represented the various youth sides of England.
Will he be a good signing for Pellegrini?
Acquiring Gomes would eat up a substantial part of West Ham United’s transfer budget and this accentuates the need to rather look for a cheaper alternative like Hayden. He is an established player now and would be a good investment.
A defensive minded player who also has the tendency to pop up with the occasional goal, Hayden has the calibre to be a perfect partner for Declan Rice. With the two of them sitting at the base of the midfield, Pellegrini’s side could play an attacking brand of football.
He is decisive with his tackles, is good in the air and has the ability to create space for himself with his clever movements in midfield. Further, he has shown immense tenacity and work ethic and could galvanise the, at times overrun West Ham midfield, with his added work-rate and hardworking attitude.
