Why West Ham signing Adam Lallana would be a smart move
As per a report from the Daily Star, West Ham United are among a host of Premier League clubs vying for the signing of Liverpool midfielder Adam Lallana, who is out of contract at the end of the season.
A product of the Southampton youth academy, Lallana made his first-team debut for the Saints in 2006 and went on to make 261 appearances, scoring 59 goals and assisting 48. Liverpool signed the English midfielder in the summer of 2014.
Since joining the Reds, Lallana has featured 178 times, scoring and assisting 22 goals apiece. The 32-year-old has also made 34 appearances for the England national team, finding the back of the net on three occasions.
West Ham need midfield reinforcements
The central midfield department, in particular, is one area where West Ham should bring in reinforcements. Declan Rice has done well once again, while January loan signing Tomas Soucek has also impressed. Captain Mark Noble has also fought hard in the middle, but he turned 33 years old earlier this month.
In addition, the 34-year-old Carlos Sanchez is out of contract at the end of the season. And Jack Wilshere, once again, has spent more time out on the treatment tables than on the field. While there is a chance that Soucek could be signed permanently, the Hammers need to add more quality and depth to their midfield unit.
Having said that, signing Lallana would benefit the London outfit immensely. The 31-year-old may have dropped down the pecking order at Liverpool due to injury problems but his quality and experience remain undoubted.
Lallana has featured 22 times in all competitions this season, contributing with a goal and two assists. His only goal came in a crucial game against Manchester United in October last year, helping Liverpool snatch a point from the jaws of defeat.
Lallana has made almost 200 appearances in the Premier League. The midfielder has won the Champions League and is on the verge of winning the league title as well. Hence, his signing would add more quality and experience to the Hammers’ midfield unit.
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Verdict
Given West Ham’s performances this season, adding more quality to the side is imperative. And signing Lallana would achieve just that. The 31-year-old is vastly experienced and would bolster the Hammers midfield. Furthermore, he will be available on a free transfer, making him an even more attractive prospect.