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West Ham have taken huge strides towards becoming a (top) top-half team this season after spending just shy of £100m in the summer and in Felipe Anderson they have a star – however, despite their big spending, there are still some voids that need filling if they want to be the completed article.
Arthur Masuaku and Aaron Cresswell are Manuel Pellegrini’s two left-back options and the latter is surely surplus to requirements as they enter a new era, so the Chilean should consider a move for Real Betis’ Junior Firpo.
What’s the word?
Well, the Spaniard has been a revelation for Los Verdiblancos this season as his dominant showings on the left of their defence draw the attention of Pep Guardiola and Manchester City, who are apparently keen to bring in cover for the injury-plagued Benjamin Mendy, while Arsenal are also interested.
At the London Stadium, however, there is ample cover at left-back but neither Masuaku or Cresswell can offer their side as much quality on the back foot as they do on the front – both have been at fault on numerous occasions as they are caught in too advanced areas – the same cannot be said for the dynamic Firpo.
Impressive youngster
The 22-year-old broke into the Betis line-up last year but has come on leaps and bounds since that debut season as he chalked up three goals and an assist in 15 La Liga appearances.
The Spaniard’s athleticism would be a huge asset for the Hammers and would lessen the defensive requirements of Anderson, who should have as much freedom as he can be allowed to maximise his impact on the attack.
Masuaku’s flair and dribbling skill are commodities for a full-back but the Congolese is a liability when faced with a winger of similar technical ability and a move for Firpo would be the final piece in the jigsaw for the Irons’ new look defence – he won’t come cheap though, as he is valued at around £44m.
