Julen Lopetegui could push for Tomas Soucek exit at West Ham United
Dan Bardell believes Julen Lopetegui will make a Tomas Soucek transfer decision based on the style of play he employs at West Ham United.
The Times reported on 19 August that the Hammers are willing to let the Czechia international leave to make room for new signings.
The 29-year-old may have changed the thinking at the London Stadium with his showing as a starter against Aston Villa as he won a penalty, helping the Irons back on level terms.
Sky Sports and talkSPORT journalist Bardell thinks that Lopetegui could assess his side and their style of play before possibly asking the club to sell the midfielder, who was a regular under David Moyes.
Speaking exclusively to West Ham Zone, Bardell said: “It depends on the brand of football that Lopetegui wants to play.
“Generally, his sides want to have the ball and an element of control. Soucek has a lot of strong suits but passing probably isn’t one of those. He offers different things as a midfielder.
“If Lopetegui wants to take West Ham in a different direction then maybe he looks to move Soucek on and bring in a player he prefers.
“What I will say about Soucek is that he is a very effective player. When he’s on the pitch you always know he’s there which is always a plus.“
Tomas Soucek could still leave West Ham
The man signed from Slavia Prague has proved to be a bargain signing for the Hammers with his dynamic performances from the middle of the park.
There is no doubt that across Moyes’ reign as manager, the performances of the side were typically better when Soucek was involved, even if he did sometimes frustrate supporters.
With that being said, it could prove to be a mistake letting him go so soon after changing head coaches over the summer.
Even if the versatile midfielder doesn’t directly fit into the plans of Lopetegui, as an impact player there won’t be many better in the Premier League.
To swap him for someone like Carlos Soler from PSG might be dangerous and be something the Spanish coach regrets.
Whichever way Lopetegui decides to go, Saturday’s (24 August) clash with Crystal Palace is a final chance to run the rule over Soucek.
In other West Ham news, a Divin Mubama contract update has emerged at Manchester City.
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