Morten Hjulmand would be ideal signing for West Ham United if Declan Rice leaves
Irrespective of where West Ham finish this season, they are expected to undergo a massive squad change in the summer.
Declan Rice is certain to leave the club, and his departure would leave a big hole in the side. He will be a monumental loss to the club, but it also gives the opportunity to the manager to rebuild the squad.
David Moyes has made it clear that if Rice leaves the club, it will be for a British transfer record. It means, the club can expect to pocket a fee of over £100m from his sale.
While, at least two new midfielders will be needed to replenish his void, signing a proper defensive midfielder is a priority.
And that’s why Danish midfielder Morten Hjulmand would be perfect for the Hammers.
According to a report from Calciomercato (20 February), the Hammers are one of the clubs vying for his signature in the summer.
The 23-year-old midfielder plays for Serie A club, Lecce, and has been simply outstanding. He has a contract at the club until 2024, but his exit in the summer is “inevitable”.
Keeping him at the club is “practically impossible” for Lecce, and that’s why the Hammers must bring him to the London Stadium.
Like a typical modern-day defensive midfielder, he is strong at tackling and good at ball interception. However, he is also brilliant at finding key passes, and winning aerial duels.
He makes 2.7 tackles and 2.3 interceptions, compared to Rice who manages 2.2 tackles and 1.6 interceptions per game, according to Whoscored.
Hjulmand has registered four assists in the league, compared to two from Rice. Obviously, it’s not fair to compare the stats of players playing in different leagues under different systems, but there are some similarities as well.
Both are leaders for their respective clubs, and both play in similar positions. Both are very good at ball interceptions and like to play long passes.
Like Rice, Hjulmand is about the enjoy prime years of his playing career, and he should be an attractive signing for the club. In a way, he could be a perfect replacement for Rice, though the club may need one or two more players in midfield to compensate for the loss.