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West Ham signing this tenacious South American star this summer is an absolute no-brainer

West Ham opinion: The Hammers should make a move for Gary Medel

Back in December 2018, a report from the Daily Star claimed that West Ham were interested in signing Besiktas star, Gary Medel. However, a deal didn’t materialise and the Chilean stayed put at the Turkish club.

Gary Medel, 31, only has a year left on his contract and having rejected a new offer from Besiktas, the Turkish giants could cash in on him to raise funds rather than losing the defender on a free transfer next summer.

Besiktas would welcome an offer for the 31-year-old due to their financial troubles and that should prompt West Ham to reignite their interest in the veteran Chilean.

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The Hammers have already made three signings this summer, bringing in goalkeepers Roberto and David Martin from Espanyol and Millwall respectively, while playmaker Pablo Fornals joining from Villarreal.

Having sorted out the goalkeeping situation and added a bit more creativity and pace to the attacking department as well, Manuel Pellegrini should shift his focus towards strengthening his midfield options.

The East Londoners have had their problems in midfield last season, with Carlos Sanchez and Jack Wilshere enduring lengthy spells on the sidelines, leaving Declan Rice, Mark Noble and Pedro Obiang to cover for themselves in the middle of the park.

Although Wilshere and Sanchez should be fit for the start of the next term, Pellegrini will want to avoid being left short of options again, so adding depth to midfield is an absolute necessity.

Medel is a player who can be of use to West Ham on multiple areas of the pitch. He would offer cover in a variety of positions and provide versatility at a time where the Hammers are hamstrung by injuries.

The Chile international proved a big hit at Cardiff City a few years ago in the Premier League but couldn’t save the club from relegation. Thus, he has an idea now on what it takes to compete in England’s top-flight.

The 31-year-old could slot alongside Rice in central midfield or provide back-up to the England international. He is primarily a defensive midfielder, who offers industry, tenacity, bite, and never hesitates to jump into challenges to break the opposition’s play.

Medel could also provide cover at centre-back if either of Issa Diop, Fabian Balbuena or Angelo Ogbonna get injured.

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The Chilean has lost a yard of pace or two, but he is a committed player, who gives his everything on the pitch and is vastly experienced. The ex-Inter Milan man is also a vocal leader and such a presence is highly required in the West Ham dressing room.

Verdict

A utility and experienced player, Medel could prove to be a resourceful squad option if he joins West Ham this summer.