West Ham United could completely transform as Wolves player linked
West Ham United could transform their midfield if they were able to convince Mario Lemina to join from Wolves.
Graham Potter is yet to see any new recruits come through the door having still been at the London Stadium for under a week, while Tim Steidten knows he has to be careful around PSR constrictions following the heavy summer of spending.
Martin Allen recommended the Hammers plan a January swoop for Lemina, whose Wolves side are currently battling to beat the drop, and who was involved in a high-profile scuffle with Jarrod Bowen when his visitors were beaten 2-1 by a team overseen by Julen Lopetegui.
Former Juventus ace Lemina, 31, is a regular starter at Wolves but has just six months left on his contract, which could open the door to interested clubs and the Irons may fancy their chances of a cut-price deal to keep the Gabonese in the Premier League.
Mario Lemina to strengthen West Ham midfield?
Lemina is an experienced top-flight operator who may not always be the calming influence West Ham need in the middle of the park, but at least brings some English football savvy with him.
At present, Tomas Soucek and Carlos Soler are probably the superior duo in the centre, as Edson Alvarez has endured a poor season despite still being valued as an important player.
Guido Rodriguez is already linked with an exit after six months; James Ward-Prowse is warming the bench on loan at Nottingham Forest, and Andy Irving remains a bit-part option at best.
Potter could alternatively improve the midfield he has, and would be earning his keep as a coach all the better for it.
Lopetegui heavily struggled with the new-look Irons team he had at his disposal, which looked horribly disjointed at times.
Midfield is not a priority for West Ham in January as attacking reinforcements desperately required – but if a cheap deal presents itself in the form of a player like Lemina who is soon to be out of contract, it’s without doubt worth a look.
In other West Ham news, Millwall have concerns about the Hammers ahead of their FA Cup tie with Dagenham & Redbridge.
For more West Ham news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.