West Ham United are being linked with a variety of targets as they begin to plan and prepare for life after Declan Rice.
There have already been several reports claiming that Scott McTominay will be playing at the London Stadium.
However, more recent reports have listed his teammate Fred as another potential for the Hammers and manager David Moyes.
Because of Casemiro’s arrival at Old Trafford, the Brazilian’s role has decreased, and with his contract expiring next summer and a desire to be valued, he may need to leave the club.
Last month, the midfielder said he was meeting with Erik ten Hag to discuss his future and stated, “Of course, I always want to play.” [About my future] I’m not sure yet; I need to talk to my family, and I still have one year remaining on my contract here. I’ll consult with my team and the club to see what everyone thinks.
“I also need to speak with ten Hag; he’s the manager, and the conversation needs to include everyone.” We’ll have to wait and see how next season pans out. “I want to be important and contribute to the team, so we’ll see.”
What is the latest on Fred’s transfer to West Ham United?
According to 90min reporter Graeme Bailey, who spoke on the ‘Talking Transfers’ podcast earlier this week, the Hammers have’sniffed’ about Fred as they look to make a summer move.
According to the respectable writer, Fulham and clubs in Saudi Arabia are also interested in the 30-year-old, with United expected to seek roughly £20 million for his services.
Should Fred be signed by West Ham United?
Fred had a disappointing season, making only 12 Premier League appearances. However, the 5 foot 7 machine was used as a substitute on a whopping 23 occasions, demonstrating that he is still a valuable member of the squad. His main disadvantages are a lack of presence and consistency, yet his time in the Northwest has seen tremendous bursts of contribution.
This is demonstrated by his ranking in the top 10% of players in his position in Europe’s top five leagues for shot-creating actions per 90 minutes, as well as the top 3% for tackles and blocks per 90 minutes, demonstrating his incredible all-around midfield talent.
John Barnes emphasized this, saying, “Fred deserves more respect for the job he’s doing on the pitch.”
Mikael Silvestre agreed, saying that Fred is ‘underrated’ and that “he’s doing the dirty work that goes unnoticed in front of the back four, but I can tell that the defense will always like these types of players because they give protection.”
“I actually believe he is very underrated in this team; he is someone who gives everything to the team and does the unnoticed work.”
Having a guy with this level of ability might help the endlessly imaginative Lucas Paqueta to thrive in east London.
The former Lyon phenom struggled in the early stages of his English odyssey, having only scored his first league goal in early January, but shone in the latter stages of the season, and will forever be remembered for his assist on Jarrod Bowen’s Europa Conference League winning goal.
The playmaker has a unique profile in the squad, with his creative ability demonstrated by the fact that he ranks in the top 7% of those in his position in Europe’s top five leagues for progressive passes, as well as having registered seven assists in all competitions in 2022/23 – the joint-most of any of his teammates.
While he is a hardworking asset like his fellow Brazilian, ranking in the top 1% for tackles made, having someone of Fred’s defensive skill alongside him would allow the 25-year-old to flourish in a more advanced, playmaking position.
If the former AC Milan star can thrive in a roving midfield role, he might become absolutely unplayable, solidifying himself as a true talisman for Moyes and co.
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