West Ham already have perfect Guido Rodriguez replacement ready
West Ham already have the perfect replacement for Guido Rodriguez in academy midfielder Lewis Orford.
The Argentinian World Cup winner has underwhelmed since his summer move to the London Stadium and has been linked with a move back to Real Betis.
A report from InfoRealBetis claims that the Hammers would allow the 30-year-old to leave if they can recoup the £2.5 million they spent on his signing bonus [25 November].
West Ham have perfect replacement in their academy
The midfielder was brought in on a free transfer in the summer to add quality experience to the Hammers engine room.
However, he has struggled to adapt to pace of the English game and it would be better for both parties to cut their losses on this occasion. For technical director Tim Steidten it is an obvious move to sanction.
Lopetegui has an ideal replacement waiting in the wings in 18-year-old Lewis Orford, who was the standout player as the under-18s won an FA Youth Cup and Premier League South double in the 2022/23 season.
The English youngster has made eight appearances so far in the Premier League 2 this season , notching four assists and captained his country for the under-19s 4-1 victory over the Netherland in October.
Orford also scored the winner for the Three Lions under-19s in the 1-0 victory over Bulgaria in November securing their place in the elite round of the UEFA Euro U19s qualifying.
He is yet to make his debut for the senior side but could add a vital dose of energy and goals from midfield, something which the Hammers have lacked this campaign.
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