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West Ham could enter the bidding for wantaway Newcastle United midfielder Isaac Hayden this summer, per the Daily Telegraph.
What’s the word?
The central midfielder has outlined his intentions to leave St James’ Park this summer.
Per the aforementioned report, Hayden attempted to engineer a transfer last summer after his partner welcomed a baby, with the pair keen to move closer to the south.
Rafael Benitez refused to countenance a sale, though, as he was unable to secure a replacement and Hayden has been a standout player throughout the latter part of this campaign, making 24 appearances in all competitions.
Speaking after the clash with Liverpool, the Magpies’ final home game of the campaign, he said: “I think I will be going.
“I have spoken to the club about it and they’ve been open and honest with me.”
The Telegraph claim that the Magpies will want between £15million and £20m for a player they paid £2.6m for in 2016 and the Irons are listed as potential suitors, along with Norwich City and Brighton & Hove Albion.
The wrong type of player
Hayden has been one of the surprise packages of the season in Newcastle's midfield. He started the season as nothing more than a bit-part player, but he has grown into the season and established himself as a mainstay at the heart of midfield.
His high-energy approach has been pivotal in the Magpies' bid for survival and he is now one of the first names on Benitez's team sheet.
However, despite his obvious credentials, it's fair to say that West Ham have enough water-carriers.
The likes of Mark Noble, Declan Rice, Robert Snodgrass and Pedro Obiang all protect the back four; it is further forward where the Hammers need reinforcement.
There is little point in the club paying a up to £20m for a squad player. A forward or a winger has to be the priority this summer, particularly with the Hammers’ summer plans already starting to take shape.
Signing Hayden does nothing to replace that trio.